Three lump-sum social welfare payments are due to land in people’s bank accounts this week in a bid to take the sting out of the cost-of-living crisis.
They’re the first three of nine once-off payments announced by the Government in last month’s Budget, which will be paid between now and January.
Here’s what can be expected this week and who’s likely to benefit from the payments.
A €300 fuel allowance lump sum will be winging its way to 409,000 households in the coming days. The exact payment date varies between recipients, so some may not receive the money until later in the week.
READ MORE: Overlooked washing machine button means you’ll never need to use tumble dryer again
Between Wednesday and Friday, a €400 Disability Support Grant will be paid out to 214,000 people with disabilities who are currently in receipt of Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension, or the Blind Pension.
On Thursday, some 45,000 hard-pressed families who receive the Working Family Payment can look forward to the payment of a €400 lump sum. Those families include around 97,000 children.
The latest lump-sum payments were announced today by Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys, who said the extra money should help ease the pressure and stress that many households are facing.
“The Government is conscious that the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact families the length and breadth of the country,” she remarked.
“The payments being paid this week will be followed by six further lump-sum payments over the coming weeks, including a €400 Carer’s Support Grant, a double Child Benefit payment, and Christmas and January double payments.”
In addition to the lump-sum bonuses, social welfare recipients will also get a weekly increase of €12 from January.
All lump-sum and double payments are automatically paid to eligible recipients, so people do not need to apply for them.
Ms Humphreys made the announcement at Shed Fest – the country’s first national conference of the Men’s Sheds Association – where she is expected to allocate funding to 435 men’s sheds nationwide.
Join the Irish Mirror’s breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive breaking news and the latest headlines direct to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
