Millions of households to benefit from social welfare changes coming into force this December

December is here and households across the country are bracing for what is often the most expensive month of the year. 

Two cost of living payments are set to be issued to over a million households and a new grant for parents of newborns will begin.

Here’s a breakdown of all the key changes for December:  

Christmas Bonus Payment

From today, December 2nd, the Christmas Bonus will be automatically paid to 1.38 million people receiving primary weekly welfare payments. 

This year, the bonus is 100% of the usual weekly payment, with a minimum amount of €20.  

There’s no need to apply as eligible recipients will receive it alongside their regular payment.  

Among the qualifying Social Welfare payments are: 

• Carer’s Allowance and Benefit (including half-rate Carer’s Allowance)  
• Disability Allowance and Illness Benefit (for 12 months or more)  
• State Pension (Contributory and Non-Contributory)  
• Jobseeker’s Allowance (12 months or more)  
• Domiciliary Care Allowance  
• One-Parent Family Payment  

Full eligibility details are available for those on specific programs like Back to Education Allowance or Rural Social Scheme.  

Double Child Benefit Payment

On Tuesday, December 3rd, more than 660,000 families will receive a second double Child Benefit payment of €280 per child. 

This follows the first double payment issued in November, providing a significant boost for families during the holiday season.  

Newborn Baby Grant

From December 1st, 2024, parents of newborns will receive a Newborn Baby Grant of €280. 

This is in addition to the first month’s Child Benefit payment of €140, offering a combined €420 to support families welcoming new arrivals.  

These measures aim to ease the financial pressure on households, providing extra support during the costly holiday period and beyond.

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