The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed the return of the Christmas Bonus in 2025, giving millions across the UK a modest but timely financial boost. It’s a payment that’s easy to overlook—£10 might not seem like much—but for pensioners, carers, and low-income households juggling winter expenses, it still holds value.
Even as critics argue that the amount is outdated, the bonus remains a dependable part of the UK’s social security system. No need to apply, no hoops to jump through — just a straightforward, automatic payment that lands in your account right before the holidays.
When Will the Christmas Bonus 2025 Be Paid?
The DWP has confirmed that payments will go out in December 2025, usually during the first or second full week of the month. The goal is to ensure recipients have the money before Christmas Day to help cover festive spending or pressing seasonal costs — like heating, gifts, or groceries.
The payment will drop into the same bank account where your usual benefit or pension is paid. You do not need to apply or take any action if you’re eligible. Just keep an eye on your bank statement for a note that says “DWP XB” or similar wording.
How Much Is the Christmas Bonus?
Still holding at £10, the Christmas Bonus is:
- Tax-free
- Not means-tested
- Does not count as income
- Does not affect other benefits
So while inflation has eaten into its real-world value, the bonus won’t reduce any other support you’re receiving — and that’s part of why it’s still important.
Who Qualifies for the Christmas Bonus in 2025?
To be eligible, you must be present or ordinarily resident in the UK (or in specific eligible areas abroad) during the qualifying week, which is typically the first full week of December.
You also need to be receiving at least one qualifying benefit during that week. You don’t need to receive all of them — just one.
State Pension Claimants Who Qualify
If you’re receiving:
- State Pension
- New State Pension
…you’ll get the bonus automatically — whether you’re on a full or partial pension. This means the majority of pensioners in the UK will qualify.
Disability and Health-Related Benefits That Qualify
The Christmas Bonus also covers individuals receiving disability or long-term health benefits such as:
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Adult Disability Payment (for residents in Scotland)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
Carer and Work Injury Benefits That Qualify
If you receive one of the following, you’re also in:
- Carer’s Allowance
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Constant Attendance Allowance
Again, only one bonus is paid per person, even if you receive multiple benefits.
Widow, Bereavement, and Survivor Benefits That Qualify
You may also receive the bonus if you’re on:
- Widow’s Pension
- Widowed Parent’s Allowance
- Widowed Mother’s Allowance
- Bereavement Support Payment
As long as the benefit is active during the qualifying week, you’re eligible.
Which Benefits Do Not Qualify?
Some commonly received benefits do not qualify on their own, including:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit (if received without State Pension)
- Housing Benefit
- Income-related ESA
- Income-based JSA
However — and this is important — many people receive a mix of benefits. So if you’re getting Universal Credit plus PIP or State Pension, you’ll still qualify because of the other benefit.
Do You Need to Apply?
Nope. There’s no application, no form, no call to make.
The DWP runs automated checks based on your benefit status during the qualifying week. If you qualify, they’ll send the bonus out automatically.
If, by late December, the payment hasn’t arrived and you believe you’re eligible, contact the DWP office responsible for your main benefit or send a message through your Universal Credit journal, if applicable.
How It Shows on Bank Statements
You won’t get a separate transaction for the bonus. Instead, look for:
- DWP XB
- DWP Christmas Bonus
- Or something similar
The exact reference might vary slightly depending on your bank, but “XB” is usually the clearest giveaway.
If your partner also qualifies, you’ll each get £10, for a total of £20 per household.
Does the Bonus Affect Other Payments?
Absolutely not. The £10 Christmas Bonus is:
- Not taxable
- Not considered income
- Not counted as savings
- Does not reduce your other benefits
That makes it one of the few no-strings-attached extras left in the system.
Why It Still Matters in 2025
Sure, £10 isn’t going to change anyone’s financial future. But it still helps — especially when you’re counting every penny.
- It’s reliable — same time, every year
- It’s automatic — no red tape
- It’s universal among eligible groups — no postcode lottery
- And it shows that some level of seasonal support is still intact
For older people and carers on tight budgets, even a small top-up in December can mean the difference between skipping a meal or having one festive treat.
Why Hasn’t the Amount Increased?
This is the million-pound question — or at least the £100 question. The £10 rate hasn’t changed since the 1970s, when it was first introduced. Adjusted for inflation, that would be more like £100 today.
Charities, pensioner groups, and MPs have been calling for an increase for years. But the government continues to hold the line, arguing that the bonus is part of a larger package of seasonal support, which includes:
- Winter Fuel Payments
- Cold Weather Payments
- Cost of Living top-ups (when announced)
- The State Pension Triple Lock
In short: no increase for 2025. And so far, no plans to review it either.
What If You Think You’re Eligible but Don’t Get It?
If the money hasn’t shown up by late December, take these steps:
- Confirm your benefit was active during the qualifying week
- Check your bank statement carefully for “DWP XB”
- Contact the DWP office responsible for your main benefit
- Use your online journal (for Universal Credit) or call their helpline
Sometimes delays happen due to recent benefit changes, bank holidays, or address/banking info that’s out of date. But most issues are fixed quickly once flagged.
Christmas Bonus vs. Cost of Living Payments
These are not the same.
The £10 Christmas Bonus is a separate, annual benefit that has nothing to do with the Cost of Living Payments the government may announce.
If there’s additional winter support in 2025 (like previous £300–£900 top-ups), those will be paid separately — and on their own timeline. So yes, it’s possible to receive:
- Your regular pension or benefit
- The £10 Christmas Bonus
- A Cost of Living Payment
- Plus Winter Fuel or Cold Weather support
That’s a lot of moving pieces — but every bit adds up.
Final Thoughts: A Small Gesture That Still Counts
The DWP Christmas Bonus 2025 isn’t life-changing, and no one’s pretending it is. But it’s predictable, timely, and tax-free — and that’s worth something. In a system where many benefits require long waits, assessments, or forms, this is one of the few things that just… shows up.
If you’re receiving a qualifying benefit, check your bank in early December, and make sure your personal and banking details are up to date.
And if it’s not there by the end of the month don’t let it slide. Ask for it. You’ve earned it.
FAQs
Usually between the first and second full week of December. Most people receive it before Christmas Day.
The bonus is £10. It’s tax-free and does not affect your other benefits.
No. If you’re eligible, the DWP pays it automatically.
Anyone receiving a qualifying benefit during the first full week of December. That includes State Pension, PIP, DLA, and more.
Not by itself but if you’re on UC and receive another qualifying benefit (like PIP), then yes.
