Dublin: The first payments under this winter’s Fuel Allowance Scheme will be issued this week, benefiting 410,000 households nationwide.
The means-tested support will run for 28 weeks at a weekly rate of €33, or in two lump sums of €462 each.
Expanded Eligibility from 2025
- Enhanced qualifying conditions now extend to people aged 66 and over, instead of just over-70s.
- Applicants over 66 no longer need to be on a social protection payment.
- Income thresholds increased to €524 per week for singles and €1,048 per week for couples.
- Capital disregard raised from €20,000 to €50,000.
- Carer’s Allowance is now a qualifying payment, subject to the scheme’s means test.
Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary said the scheme remains “a vital support” for families during winter and encouraged people to check their eligibility under the new rules.
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