Department for Work & Pensions (Image: PA)

The Christmas bonus from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is being sent to thousands of benefit claimants this month. The payment is designed to help with the financial pressures of the festive season. The annual £10 payment is made before Christmas .

To receive the bonus you need to be receiving the eligible benefits during the "qualifying" week, according to the DWP, the "qualifying week" is normally the first full week of December . You do not need to claim to get this payment as it is paid automatically. Those eligible should have received the bonus at the beginning of December, although no specific date is guaranteed.

To receive the payment you must also live in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man or Gibraltar during the f

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