Social welfare payments

New Year, New Wallet: Ireland's Social Welfare Payments Just Got a Boost!

🎉 Big news for social welfare recipients in Ireland! Starting today, enjoy a €12 increase in payments, plus more!

As we welcome the New Year, it seems that the social welfare recipients in Ireland have something to cheer about! Effective January 1, all weekly social welfare payments have increased by €12. This includes core payments such as the state pension and jobseeker's allowance. Not only that, but qualified adults and individuals receiving reduced rates will also see proportional increases in their payments. Talk about a festive boost to your wallet!

In a recent announcement, Taoiseach and Minister Humphreys unveiled over €1 billion in new social protection increases coming into effect today, marking a significant change that many have eagerly awaited. Among the various enhancements is an increase of up to €8 in the weekly Child Support Payment, boosting the payment for children of social welfare recipients to €50 per week for those under 12 years and €62 for those aged 12 and over. This increase is sure to bring some relief to parents looking to provide for their families in these challenging times.

It’s worth noting that any recipient hoping to make the most of these changes should remember that banks and post offices will be closed today. So, while you celebrate, make sure to plan your visit for tomorrow! The Department of Social Protection has also reminded recipients to note the resumption of normal payment schedules after the holiday week, ensuring everyone is in line for their payments come January 7. With these changes in place, the new year is beginning on a positive note!

But that's not all – these increases are just a taste of what’s to come in 2025. Notably, from July next year, the Carer's Allowance Income Disregard will also see an increase to €625 for single individuals and €1,250 for couples. The government is clearly taking steps to bolster support for families and individuals in need, giving us a sign of hope as we march into the new year.

Interesting fact: More than 1.5 million people in Ireland currently receive some form of social welfare payment. Another fun tidbit – 2023 marked the largest total raise in social welfare payments since the recession, showing a committed effort towards social equity in our lovely Emerald Isle!