DWP Christmas benefit sanctions and cuts - where to get help when your payments stop

Many benefit recipients are preparing for their payments to be interrupted this month due to the bank holidays which could change the date they receive their cash. However, for the thousands of people reportedly on sanctions, the festive season could also be holding a range of devastating bills they might not be able to afford.

Benefit sanctions can reduce the amount you receive from the Department for Work and Pensions or even stop the payments outright depending on the reason for the cut. Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Universal Credit are among the benefits that can be sanctioned for a variety of reasons.

The most recent data from the DWP showed 22,000 benefit recipients were sanctioned as of August, leaving them potentially facing the festive season with holes in their pockets. However, getting sanctioned isn’t the end of the story as there is specific help available for those who are struggling to get by without their benefits.

These sanctions can also affect benefit-related extras you receive like Housing Benefit or Council Tax reduction. Money Helper urged people to contact the Revenues and Benefits department of their council as soon as possible when they’ve been sanctioned to explain their situation and avoid potentially ending up in arrears on rent or Council Tax.

Hardship payments are available for Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance and Universal Credit claimants. To qualify you must prove you’ll be unable to pay for essentials due to the sanction.

You could also qualify if you or your partner are considered vulnerable, which can include being pregnant, caring for a severely disabled person or responsible for dependent children. Hardship payments usually offer between 60% and 80% of the amount you normally receive from benefits depending on your circumstances and should be paid instantly or on your next benefit payment due date.

If you’re claiming Universal Credit you’ll need to pay back the hardship advance when your sanction ends. This will usually be taken off through a repayment rate you can afford every month until the total amount is paid off.

Local welfare schemes can also provide support with essential costs, such as heating or food bills. The exact details and eligibility criteria will differ depending where you are in the UK but can usually be found on your local government’s website.

Food banks can also be a last resort for claimants hard-done by sanctions, as they can provide a lot more than just food. Some food banks even provide fuel vouchers to top up pre-pay meters.

Money Helper warned that if you fear you could fall behind on essentials like rent, gas, electricity or Council Tax, contact the relevant party and try to figure out a plan that can avoid leaving you in debt. Citizen’s Advice and Shelter can also offer further advice if you fear you might lose your accommodation because of the sanction you’re under.