Ukrainians are offered up to £2,610 before Christmas: who can receive it.

According to The Sun: Households can learn about five amazing opportunities to receive cash bonuses before Christmas totaling up to £2,610.

During the holiday season, many worry about how to pay increased energy bills and other expenses.

However, it is important to remember that there are many free opportunities available from the local council or even by switching bank accounts.

Let’s explore these opportunities so you can find out if you can apply.

Universal Credit Christmas Bonus - £10

If you receive Universal Credit or other social payments, you are entitled to a bonus of £10.

This money will be sent to households during the first full week of December.

Since December 1 is a Monday, you should receive the payment within the first seven days of the month.

While the amount is small, £10 can help cover a few minor expenses.

Those eligible for this bonus do not need to apply; the payment will be made automatically.

If you are unsure whether you have received the payment before, check your bank statements for the code 'DWP XB'.

Winter Fuel Payment - £300

Pensioners may be eligible for a cash payment of £300 to help cover energy bills.

Payments will start to arrive in November, and many people will receive the money in December.

This payment is available to anyone born before September 22, 1959, residing in England or Wales.

However, if your income exceeds £35,000, HMRC may require repayment due to tax obligations.

British Gas Energy Support Fund - £2,000

Customers facing energy poverty can apply for a grant of £2,000.

This support is part of a £140 million support package for households in difficulty.

The fund is available only for current British Gas customers who have an energy debt or are at risk of energy poverty.

To receive support, the energy debt must be between £50 and £2,000 on a prepayment account or between £250 and £2,000 on a credit account.

Household Support Fund - £300

Households facing hardship can receive free money to purchase food or pay energy bills.

This support is provided by the Government's Household Support Fund (HSF).

The program has been extended several times, with the last phase running from April 2025 to March 2026.

Each council in England has been allocated a portion of the £742 million fund to distribute to those in need.

Eligibility criteria vary depending on location, but generally, assistance is available for those with low income or receiving social payments.

Banking Bonus - £900

You can receive up to £900 by switching your bank account and savings ISA before Christmas.

Barclays offers a lucrative promotion, but you need to meet certain requirements to claim the money.

The bank provides an initial £200 to customers who open a new current account.

Those who switch to a premium current account may receive a bonus of £400.

There’s also an opportunity to earn an additional £500 for those transferring their existing cash ISA to Barclays.

These offers are valid for transfers made between October 7 and November 27.

A 'full switch' must be completed in the app, including at least two active direct debit transactions.

To qualify for the cash bonus, a minimum of £2,000 must be deposited into the new Barclays current account or £4,000 into the new premium account within 30 days of opening.

Transfers must be made through the Current Account Switching Service (Cass).

Savings Tips from Gemma Bird: Save £2k before Christmas

If you are looking for ways to save, you have come to the right place! Gemma Bird has shared her best tips on how to save £2,000 before Christmas.

• Set a budget: Track your spending and create a realistic budget.
• Cut unnecessary expenses: Cancel unnecessary subscriptions and avoid impulse purchases.
• Menu planning: Create meal lists to reduce grocery spending.
• Sell unwanted items: Get rid of excess items by selling them online for extra cash.
• Cashback and discounts: Use cashback websites and look for promotional codes.
• Handmade gifts: Create personalized gifts with a personal touch.
• Find seasonal work: This is a great way to earn extra money in the winter.

Follow these tips from Gemma Bird to improve your finances before the holiday season!

Importantly, despite financial challenges, there are numerous opportunities to receive support ahead of Christmas. People can utilize these programs to alleviate rising expenses and combat energy poverty. Keep an eye on important dates and don’t miss the opportunity to receive these cash bonuses!