In Ireland, changes to social welfare payment schedules have been announced for the upcoming holidays. This includes adjustments to the dates when people will receive their payments in December 2024 and January 2025.
With the cost of living being a big concern for many, the government is making sure to provide timely financial help, especially as the holiday season approaches. Let’s take a closer look at these updates, including new payment dates and cost of living supports.
New Social Welfare Payment Dates in Ireland
In December 2024, there will be some important changes to when people get their social welfare payments. Normally, payments are made on specific dates, but due to the Christmas holidays, some payments will be given earlier.
- Unchanged Payments: Payments for December 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th will remain on their original dates.
- Early Payments: Payments that were scheduled for December 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th, and 27th will now be processed earlier, starting the week of December 16th.
- January 1st Payments: If your payment is due on January 1st, you’ll receive it on December 31st instead. This helps make sure you have money saved up before the New Year.
The Department of Social Protection has also announced that if you receive weekly payments, you will get both your regular payment and an advance payment for the following week, starting Monday, December 16th.
Jobseeker’s Allowance and Jobseeker’s Benefit Changes
There is also an update for those claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit.
If you’re receiving payments for the weeks ending December 17th and 24th, you will get two payments at once. These payments will be processed and sent to your bank accounts on December 20th.
Resumption of Normal Payment Schedule
After the holidays, the normal payment schedule will return. For those expecting payments for the week ending December 31st and January 1st, payments will be made on Tuesday, January 7th, 2025.
If you are receiving Illness Benefit, make sure to continue submitting your ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’ during the Christmas and New Year period to avoid any issues with your payments.
Budget 2025: Lump Sum Payments
In addition to the changes to payment dates, the Budget 2025 also introduced 10 lump sum payments to provide more financial support to those who need it. Last month, more than 1.4 million people received a double payment, which was the first cash boost of this kind for many families.
Upcoming Cost of Living Supports
Starting November 4th, Ireland will begin distributing various cost of living supports to help people manage their expenses. The payments include:
- €400 Working Family Payment
- €400 Disability Support Grant
- €300 Lump Sum Payment for Households Receiving Fuel Allowance
These payments aim to relieve some of the financial pressure many families are facing, helping them as the year comes to a close.
The Irish government has made several adjustments to social welfare payments, especially for the holidays. These changes ensure that people receive their payments on time, with many even getting advance payments.
With the additional cost of living supports being introduced, these updates are designed to help ease financial stress during the festive season. If you’re affected by these changes, be sure to check your payment dates and stay informed about upcoming financial aid.
What are the new social welfare payment dates in Ireland?
Some social welfare payments for December 2024 will be made earlier, starting from December 16th, due to the holidays.
When will payments due on January 1st be made?
Payments that are due on January 1st will be processed on December 31st to ensure you have funds for the New Year.
Will I receive extra payments for Jobseeker’s Allowance or Benefit?
Yes, if you are claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit, you will receive two payments for the weeks ending December 17th and 24th.
When will normal payment schedules resume?
Normal payment schedules will resume on Tuesday, January 7th, 2025, after the holidays.
What is the Budget 2025 support?
The Budget 2025 includes several lump sum payments, including a double payment for many people, as well as new cost of living supports.
