There is no limit to this little-known one-off payment from the Department of Social Protection and it could come in handy for a number of things including bills, repairs and more
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There’s a little-known one-off payment that households might be eligible to claim.
This payment, which has no cap, is distributed by the Department of Social Protection and there are two conditions you need to meet to get it.
The Additional Needs Payment is designed to help cover an expense that can’t be met from your weekly income or other sources, and it doesn’t have a maximum limit.
Here’s everything you need to know about it and how to qualify.
Who can claim?
You could be eligible for an Additional Needs Payment if you are:
- Getting a social welfare payment, or
- Working and on a low income, regardless of the number of hours that you work
Even if you’re not receiving a social welfare payment, you might still be able to get this payment.
When you apply, your income and circumstances will be evaluated to determine if you’re eligible.
What does the Additional Needs Payment cover?
The Additional Needs Payment can be used to help with an expense that you can’t cover from your weekly income or other sources (like savings).
For example:
- An increase in your fuel or electricity costs
- Essential repairs to property, including, replacing household appliances and furniture
- Funeral costs
- Deposits for private rented accommodation
- Bedding and cooking utensils, if you are setting up home for the first time
- Food, clothing and shelter after an emergency event such as a fire or flood
- Recurring travel costs to hospital for appointments, or for visiting a relative in hospital or prison
- Prams, buggies, cots, or essential child safety equipment
This isn’t an exhaustive list, and other expenses may also be covered.
How to qualify
To be eligible for an Additional Needs Payment, you must:
- Live in Ireland, and
- Have an income below the ‘weekly household income’ limit
Your application will be reviewed by a Community Welfare Officer (CWO).
The CWO will consider your weekly household income, your savings and investments, your household expenses, and the type of assistance you require.
They’ll examine your circumstances and decide if you’re eligible for the payment.
In some cases, the CWO can provide a payment even if your income exceeds the weekly household income limit, but this will depend on your individual circumstances.
What’s the payment amount?
There isn’t a fixed rate for an Additional Needs Payment.
The sum you receive will be based on your personal circumstances and what you require assistance with.
How to submit an application
You have the option to apply either via paper application or online.
When you put in an application for an Additional Needs Payment, it will be evaluated by a Community Welfare Officer (CWO).
You’ll need to provide details about your weekly household income, outgoings, savings and investments, as well as those of everyone else in your household. You’ll also need to show evidence of the kind of help you need.
You can submit your application online via MyWelfare.ie. To do this, you’ll need a verified MyGovID account.
If you’d rather, you can post your application for an Additional Needs Payment, or arrange a meeting with your local CWO.
If you choose to send your application by post, the CWO may either issue a payment or set up a meeting with you.