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Christmas Bonus

Applies to: England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

Who does it help?

If you are 60 or over and getting State Retirement Pension or Pension Credit, you qualify for a Christmas Bonus each year. You do not pay tax on this.

You can also get a Christmas Bonus if you are getting Carer's Allowance or other benefits such as Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance. 

Is it mean-tested?

As long as you are getting one of the qualifying benefits, you have the right to a Christmas Bonus.  

What help does the benefit provide?

Christmas Bonus is money usually paid directly into your bank or building society account.  It can be paid into a post office in some cases. You can spend it on what you want.

How much does it pay?

A Christmas Bonus is usually £10 a year. In some cases, you can also get a bonus for your partner.  It does not affect any other benefits you might get.

How to claim

You do not need to make a claim for Christmas Bonus.  It is paid automatically. If you think you qualify for the payment but have not received it, speak to your benefits office or pension centre that deals with your benefit payments.

Further help

The Citizens Advice (link opens in a new window) website can give you more information about Christmas Bonuses.

Directgov, the government website, has more information about Christmas Bonuses (link opens in a new window) .

Find an adviser tool.

This information has been produced by Citizens Advice. 

Last updated: 26 October 2009