Millions to Receive Christmas Bonus from DWP
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is set to distribute the annual £10 Christmas Bonus to millions of eligible individuals across the UK. This bonus, introduced by Ted Heath’s Conservative Government in 1972, provides a one-off tax-free payment to recipients of State Pension and certain other benefits.
Over 22 million people in the UK are currently claiming benefits from the DWP, with 12.7 million older individuals receiving State Pension. However, many may not be aware of this additional Christmas Bonus, which can provide some financial relief during the festive season and colder months.
Eligible recipients this year include those on State Pension, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Adult Disability Payment (ADP), Attendance Allowance, and Carer’s Allowance. The qualifying period for the bonus typically falls on the first full week of December, with payments expected to arrive separately from regular benefit payments.
While 23 benefits now qualify for the Christmas Bonus, around 5.7 million households on Universal Credit are not eligible for this additional payment. The DWP will automatically issue the £10 bonus to eligible recipients, who will see it reflected as ‘DWP XB’ in their bank statements or online accounts.
To qualify for the Christmas Bonus, individuals must be present or ‘ordinally resident’ in the UK or certain other regions during the qualifying week. Eligible benefits include State Pension, PIP, Carer’s Allowance, and others listed by the DWP. Married or cohabiting couples may both receive the bonus if they meet the eligibility criteria.
There is no need to apply for the Christmas Bonus, as the DWP will distribute it automatically to qualified recipients. More information on eligibility and the bonus can be found on the DWP’s official website.
In conclusion, the DWP’s Christmas Bonus serves as a small but meaningful gesture to support those receiving benefits during the holiday season, providing a little extra financial assistance when it is needed most.
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This article highlights the upcoming distribution of the Christmas Bonus by the DWP, offering insights into eligibility criteria, qualifying benefits, and the automatic payment process. It aims to inform readers about this annual bonus and its significance for millions of benefit claimants across the UK.