Christmas bonus 2025: suitable, amounts, payment … everything you need to know!

Help concerning the beneficiaries of social minimums

Created in 1998, the Christmas bonus aims to support the most fragile families during the holidays, a period in which the expenses are increasing (meals, gifts, heating). It is reserved for the beneficiaries of some social minimums, such as:

• Active solidarity income (RSA),
• the specific solidarity allowance (Ass),
• The equivalent retirement allowance (AER).

People who perceive only APLs, assets or family allowances are therefore not worried. The rule remains the same in 2025: no sending of files is needed, payment is automatic if you are suitable.

An amount that depends on the composition of the house

The amount of the Christmas prize is not fixed: it varies according to the family situation. For one person in the RSA, it is 152.45 euros. For a couple with two children, it climbs 320.14 euros. The more the dependent people’s family, the greater the help increases.

Note that the amount has not been updated from … 2009! And this despite the inflation and increase in the cost of living. A situation that discusses regularly on the side of the associations to combat poverty.

When will the 2025 Christmas bonus be paid?

The good news is that there are no long steps to take: The Christmas prize is generally paid Around 15 December. Caf, MSA and Pôle Emploi take care of the transfer. According to the bank, money may appear a few days later, but generally falls before the holidays.

For families that depend on this push to buy gifts or fill the refrigerator on Christmas Eve, this calendar is crucial.

No requests to make: an automatic payment

It is not necessary to fill in a form or solicit your CAF: The organization directly identifies the beneficiaries. This helps to avoid oblivion and the guarantee that the help is coming without delay.

In case of doubts, it is always possible to check your rights through your personal space on the CAF website or with your consultant Emploi Pôle.

Welcome support but criticized

If the Christmas prize remains awaited by hundreds of thousands of houses, it is also criticized for its quantity considered too low. Several associations recall that this help does not compensate for the increase in the cost of energy or food products.

Some ask for a revaluation, Or even the integration in social minimums in a lasting way, rather than in the form of a punctual bonus.

A precious push for families

Pending possible reforms, the 2025 Christmas bonus will play its usual role: to offer some air to the most modest families in a period when the financial pressure is strong. For many parents, it represents the certainty of being able to slide a gift under the tree or prepare a real festive meal, despite the limited budgets.

Source: Madmoizelle