The Department for Work and Pensions has stated that it has no plans to increase the annual £10 Christmas Bonus, despite calls from Liberal Democrat MP Anna Sabin to adjust it for inflation. The bonus, which has remained unchanged since its introduction in 1972, would now be worth approximately £115 if indexed to inflation.
The Department of Work and Pensions ( DWP ) has addressed concerns about a potential increase in the annual £10 Christmas Bonus paid to numerous benefit recipients. This tax-free payment is distributed to recipients of state support such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, and the state pension. Established in 1972, the Christmas Bonus aims to assist individuals with additional expenses during the holiday season. However, its value has remained stagnant at £10 since its inception.
Liberal Democrat MP Anna Sabin raised the issue in Parliament, inquiring about plans to review and raise the Christmas bonus to align with inflation. Had the bonus been adjusted according to inflation, it would now be approximately £115, a significant increase of £105 from its current value. Responding on behalf of the Labour Government, pensions minister Torsten Bell stated, 'The Department has no current plans to make such an assessment. The Christmas Bonus was initially introduced as a one-off payment of £10 in 1972 and has not been uprated or increased on a yearly basis like some benefits.' Eligibility for the Christmas bonus hinges on receiving a qualifying benefit during the first week of December. Payments are typically issued during the same week, often appearing as 'DWP XB' on bank statements. Individuals receiving the following benefits may qualify for the payment: Universal Credit, Pension Credit, State Pension, Income Support, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) and Support for Mortgage Interest. For further information regarding the Christmas bonus, please visit the Government website: [link to the Government website]
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