In a festive boost for families across Ireland, the eagerly awaited Double Child Benefit payments, announced in Budget 2024, will be delivered today. Typically, the government provides a monthly child benefit of 140 euros, but this December, families will receive a one-time subsidy of 280 euros, doubling the usual support in the spirit of the holiday season.
Child benefit payments cater to families with children up to the age of 16, and for those pursuing full-time education or dealing with a disability, assistance will extend until they turn 18. Approximately 1.2 million children from 65,000 families are set to benefit from this special Christmas allocation, offering substantial relief during the festive period.
Simultaneously, Social Security Minister Heather Humphreys has announced the distribution of the government’s Christmas bonus this week. Long-term social welfare recipients, including pensioners, individuals with disabilities, carers, and single parents, totaling 1.3 million people, will receive this additional assistance. Those on Illness Benefit for over 12 months are also eligible for the Christmas bonus, ensuring a brighter holiday season for a broad spectrum of citizens.