Applications have opened for Ireland’s 2025 Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance, with the majority of eligible families set to receive automatic payments without needing to apply.
The scheme provides financial assistance to help families cover the cost of school uniforms and footwear ahead of the new academic year. This year’s payment rates are set at €160 for children aged 4-11 and €285 for children aged 12 and over in secondary education.
More than 114,000 families, covering approximately 197,000 children, will automatically receive their payments during the week beginning 14 July. The automatic system means most families will not need to submit an application, with payments processed based on existing eligibility records.
Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary announced that his department has secured over €54 million for the scheme this year. “Although more than 75% of payments under the scheme will be paid out automatically, I urge all families to check their eligibility,” Calleary said.
Families expecting an automatic payment will receive confirmation through their MyWelfare account or by post. However, those who do not receive notification of an automated payment should apply online, even if they received the allowance last year.
The application deadline is 30 September 2025. Students aged between 18 and 22 must be returning to full-time second-level education at a recognised school or college this autumn to qualify for the payment.
Dublin will see the highest number of families receiving the allowance, with over 30,450 families set to benefit. Cork follows with 10,733 families, while Leitrim has the smallest number at 970 families.
The department is currently processing payments, with families able to track their application status through the MyWelfare online portal. The scheme represents a significant investment in supporting Irish families with education-related costs as the new school year approaches.