DWP to make bonus payments to millions in January

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has signalled a boost for many, announcing fresh bonus payments coming in January, succeeding the £10 Christmas Bonus. As people grapple with the frosty weather, those eligible can expect Cold Weather Payments of £25 or £50 to land in their bank accounts.

Set to run through England and Wales, this assistance, which amounts to an extra £25 in 51 designated postcode areas, will cater to those participating in various existing government aid programmes. Some 3.9 million individuals could qualify for these DWP payments.

The government has confirmed: "If you're eligible to get Cold Weather Payments, you'll get £25 for each seven day period of very cold weather between November 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025. After each period of very cold weather in your area, you should get a payment within 14 working days. It's paid into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments." For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here

Those eligible for this extra support include people already receiving Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Universal Credit, or Support for Mortgage Interest. As per the DWP's website, eligible individuals for Cold Weather Payments will receive £25 for each seven day period of very cold weather between November 1 2024 and March 31 2025.

Following each period of very cold weather in your area, you should expect a payment within 14 working days, which will be deposited into the same bank or building society account as your benefit payments, reports Coventry Live. If these payments are triggered while you're hospitalised, it's crucial to inform the pension service or Jobcentre as it may impact your payments and this can be done through your online account or by contacting the Universal Credit helpline.