What is Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance?
The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is a means-tested once-off payment aimed at helping families meet the rising costs of uniforms and footwear for children attending school.
The scheme is open to all families and not just parents with children with additional needs. It opens in June, and the closing date for applications is 30 September 2024.
Most families don’t need to take any action as their allowance is paid automatically. The Department will let you know if you are paid automatically using your MyWelfare account or by post before the end of June 2024.
Who else can get the Allowance?
You may qualify for the allowance if:
- Your child is between 4 and 22 (full time education)
- You are getting a qualifying payment from this Department
- You are getting an Increase for a Qualified Child (applies in most cases).
- You satisfy a means test.
What are the Income limits?
Your total household income must be less than €642 for one child. This rises by €50 for each additional dependent child you have. Any savings over €5,000 are also means-tested.
How much is the Allowance?
Each eligible child aged 4-11 on 30 September 2024 is €160. For children between the ages of 12-22, the payment is €285.
What will you be asked about?
You will need information on your current payment and details about your children, such as their PPS numbers.
Where to apply?
If you are not paid automatically, you can apply online from June at MyWelfare.
How to contact the Department?
Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance Review Section, Social Welfare Services, Department of Social Protection, College Road, Sligo, F91 T384. Tel: 071 919 3318 or email: BSCFA@welfare.ie