Universal Credit claimants told they are 'not eligible' for DWP payment

Cash will be given out to millions this winter but not everyone will get it

People who claim Universal Credit and no other benefits have been told they will miss out on a bonus DWP payment this winter. The Government provides a £10 Christmas Bonus to people on certain benefits to give them a small boost over the expensive winter period.

These include people who get PIP, Pension Credit and Carer's Allowance. But the £10 bonus does not go to those who only receive Universal Credit, who are left off the DWP's Christmas list.

Citizens Advice explained: "The Department of Work and Pensions pays a Christmas Bonus to people who receive certain benefits, including those from Citizens Advice: Carer's allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Pension credit.

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"The Christmas Bonus is a one-off, tax-free payment of £10 that is usually paid in the first week of December. It is paid automatically and does not affect other benefits.

"People who claim Universal Credit as their only benefit are not eligible for the Christmas Bonus." Millions of Brits on other benefits will get the money, however.

And those who get Universal Credit alongside other payments will also be eligible. They should notice the cash enter their bank accounts just before Christmas.

While the bonus is intended to provide some of the worst-off households with a boost, critics have claimed it is worth such a small amount it hardly makes any difference. There have also been complaints the £10 rate hasn't changed for years despite rising inflation.