Department of Social Welfare in Ireland with new benefits and changes
DUBLIN: Department of Social Welfare with new benefits in Ireland in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis. The department announced eight additional social welfare benefits. Those who do not receive social welfare payments will also get this benefit. For complete information on these schemes, visit the Citizen Information website.
The department says thousands of people across the country are entitled to “extra” social benefits. But many are not realising it. The Government’s Citizen Information service says that even if you receive a social assistance payment or a social insurance payment from the Department of Social Protection, you will still be eligible for these additional benefits.
Everyone over the age of 66 is eligible for the Free Travel Scheme. Citizen Information service points out that such benefits can be obtained even if the social welfare payment is not received. Sometimes the benefit is received automatically. Anyone who receives an invalid pension will automatically get free travel. The service also clarifies that in most cases a separate application is required.
Free travel in Ireland
Anyone over the age of 66 who is a permanent resident of Ireland can travel for free on public transport. In some social welfare payments, people under the age of 66 are eligible for free travel. There is also a Senior SmartPass that allows you to travel for free on public transport in Northern Ireland.
Assistance for living on a specified island
If you receive a certain social welfare payment and live on a specified island off the coast of Ireland, you may receive an increase in the social welfare payment.
Household Benefits Package
The household benefit package helps cover the day-to-day running costs of the home. This includes electricity and gas allowances and free television licenses. It is available to people over the age of 70 and to people under 70 in some circumstances.
Relief for those living alone
Living Alone Increase is a supplemental payment for people on social welfare pensions who are living alone.
Smokeless Fuel Allowance
The Smokeless Fuel Allowance was abolished in September 2011.
Fuel Allowance
This is an allowance provided by the National Fuel Scheme for low-income families who cannot meet their heating needs.
Telephone Support Allowance
Telephone Support Allowance is a supplementary payment for people receiving certain social welfare payments. They will also receive Living Alone Increase and the Fuel Allowance.
Water Conservation Grant
The grant is currently suspended.
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