A large number of benefits claimants are set to miss out on this year's Christmas bonus despite soaring costs of living. Around 22 million people in the UK are estimated to be claiming some form of benefits, according to recent statistics published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
The government has rolled out financial support to help those hardest hit by the cost crisis in recent months including a cost of living payment worth £650 to people on means-tested benefits - the second instalment began hitting bank accounts this week - as well as a £150 payment for people claiming disability payments such as PIP and DLA.
As well as their usual monthly payments, millions of claimants will also receive a £10 Christmas bonus. The scheme has run for several years and sees a one-off, tax-free £10 payment made to people in receipt of state pension or certain DWP benefits if they meet the eligibility during a specific qualifying period, typically the first full week of December.
