The weekly charge for a qualifying child is set to increase by €4. For kids under 12, the price will climb from €42 to €46, while those aged 12 and older will pay €54 instead of the previous €50 starting January 2024.

Moreover, there’s anticipation of an announcement regarding an increase in student funding in the budget. Over 50,000 students could see a boost of over €300 for the academic year starting in January. Considerable growth in grants for postgraduate students is also on the horizon.
Social Welfare Increase Overview
Article Heading |
Social Welfare Increase 2024 |
Country |
Ireland |
Announced By |
Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys |
Department Name |
Department of Social Protection |
Increase Amount |
€12 |
Complete Information |
Find Here |
Ireland Social Welfare Amount Increase News
Since January 2024, various social welfare programs initiated by the Irish government have witnessed an increase in their amounts. Here’s a comprehensive list of the updated amounts for specific social welfare programs:
Domiciliary Care Allowance Increase: The monthly amount of the domiciliary care allowance will now see a €10 boost. Additionally, child benefit will be extended to cover every 18-year-old still enrolled full-time in school.
State Pension: From January 1st, individuals can opt to work beyond the existing qualifying age of 66, extending up to the age of 70. This flexibility aims to assist those lacking sufficient stamps for the full state pension. Working an extra year will result in a 5% increase in the weekly pension. Caregivers will also benefit from changes in their entitlements.
Working Family Payment Income Threshold: Starting in January, the income threshold for the Working Family Payment will increase by €54 per week. This adjustment aims to safeguard families receiving the payment from any loss when the minimum wage rises to €12.70 per hour.
Starting January 1st, 2024, the Second Energy Credit benefits will now show a €150 increase in accounts.
Moreover, from January 2024, individuals enrolled in Community Employment (CE), Tús, the Rural Social Scheme, or the Work Placement Experience Program will experience a weekly raise of €12 as part of the employment program increases.
Conclusion
Starting at the end of January, weekly social assistance benefits will see a one-time doubling. For those already eligible for the Christmas bonus payment, it will be disbursed at the new, elevated rates beginning the week of January 29. Minister Humphreys has also announced a 0.1 percent increase in workers’ PRSI contributions.
As per the Department of Social Protection, the increase aims to provide “more financial support for low-income families” and extend eligibility to more households. Additionally, the government has confirmed that income tax rates will stay unchanged at 20% and 40%, but adjustments to tax credits and income tax bands are on the horizon for 2024.
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