The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a significant update for millions of benefit claimants across the UK, confirming that those on Universal Credit will not be eligible for the special Christmas Bonus payment this year.
Who Qualifies for the Christmas Bonus?
While millions of people on certain benefits will receive a £10 Christmas Bonus from the DWP during December, the list of eligible benefits does not include Universal Credit. This has been the consistent position in previous years as well.
The one-off, tax-free payment is aimed at some of the nation's most vulnerable households, including those claiming specific disability benefits and pensioners. The Government states that payment is automatic for those who qualify, with the qualifying week typically being the first full week of December.
Not All Bad News for Universal Credit Households
Despite missing out on the Christmas Bonus, there is some positive financial news for individuals and families claiming Universal Credit. For the first time this year, all UC claimants will be eligible for the £150 Warm Home Discount.
This payment provides crucial support for energy bills during the colder winter months, offering substantially more financial assistance than the £10 Christmas Bonus.
Criticism of the Bonus and Other Payments
The Christmas Bonus has faced criticism from various quarters for its low value. At £10, the payment has not been increased in decades, despite ongoing calls from campaigners. This means its real-world value has been significantly eroded by inflation over the years, with many critics labelling it as essentially worthless in its current form.
In other DWP payment news, the department recently began paying the £299 Cost of Living sum into eight million eligible accounts from Tuesday, November 18th.
For those who do qualify for the Christmas Bonus, the DWP confirms the £10 payment should arrive automatically in bank accounts before Christmas without the need for a claim.
