Natalia
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is preparing to send out the annual Christmas Bonus—a one-off, tax-free £10 payment—to eligible benefit recipients.
Scheduled for the first full week of December 2025 (December 1–7), the payment arrives automatically, offering a small seasonal uplift for millions.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment amount | £10 (one-off, tax-free) |
| Payment period | First full week of December 2025 (Dec 1–7) |
| Payment marker | Shows as “DWP XB” on bank statements |
| Eligibility basis | Must receive a qualifying benefit during the qualifying week |
| Residency requirement | Must be present or “ordinarily resident” in the UK (and related territories) |
| Impact on other benefits | No impact; payment doesn’t affect other entitlements |
| Value since introduction | Introduced in 1972, amount has never changed |
| Inflation-adjusted value | Would be roughly £119 today if increased with inflation |
What’s New for 2025?
- Confirmed Timing
Beneficiaries can expect the bonus between December 1–7, 2025, as December 1 falls on a Monday this year. - Automatic, No Claim Required
Those on qualifying benefits will receive the payment automatically—no action needed. The reference appears on bank statements as “DWP XB” - Steady Value, Strong Symbol
Despite being introduced in 1972, the bonus remains at £10—a symbolic but unchanged gesture. Had it kept pace with inflation, it’d now be worth around £118.69, offering more substantial support. - Supplemental Support Available
Beyond the Christmas bonus, low-income households may also access added help—such as the Household Support Fund, extended into March 2026, offering local council–based financial aid.
Who Qualifies?
To receive the bonus, you must:
- Be receiving at least one qualifying benefit during the first full week of December 2025. These benefits include:
- State Pension
- Pension Credit
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Employment Support Allowance (contribution-based, after main phase)
- Incapacity Benefit (long-term)
- Various War Pensions (War Widow’s, Widow’s Allowance, etc.)
- And many more
- Be ordinarily resident in the UK (or Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Gibraltar, or—depending on scheme—EEA/Switzerland) during that week.
Couples where both partners meet the criteria may each receive £10, depending on benefit status.
What Recipients Should Watch For
- Check bank statements after early December for the “DWP XB” reference to confirm receipt.
- No effect on other benefits such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or other means-tested support.
- If you believe you’re eligible but don’t see it by January 1, 2026, contact your Jobcentre Plus or Pension Service for help.
For many UK residents on long-term benefits, the DWP Christmas Bonus—though modest at £10—is a timely gesture that arrives without forms or fuss.
As December approaches, no action is required from recipients. Just check your bank statement, and enjoy the festive boost. Though small in amount, the tradition continues to offer meaningful support at year’s end.
FAQs
You’ll receive it if you’re claiming any qualifying benefit during the first week of December and are normally resident in the UK or specified territories. Couples may both get it if eligible.