Parents are set to receive their August Child Benefit payments early this month due to a change in the payment schedule.
Because of the August bank holiday, banks and post offices will be closed on Monday, August 5th. As a result, any social welfare payments that would typically be paid on Monday, as well as Child Benefit payments due on Tuesday, will be issued early. These payments will be available on Friday, August 2nd, or Saturday, August 3rd.
Parents can expect to see their Child Benefit payments
They should have the money in their accounts on Friday or Saturday because of the Monday holiday. This usually occurs whenever there is a Monday holiday before the first Tuesday of the month.
Here is a list of the expected Child Benefit payment dates for the remainder of the year, including months when payments are likely to be made early:
- Tuesday, August 6th, 2024 (due to the Bank Holiday, it will likely be paid the previous Friday)
- Tuesday, September 3rd, 2024
- Tuesday, October 1st, 2024
- Tuesday, November 5th, 2024
- Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024
This adjustment follows a significant change to Child Benefit payments introduced by the Department of Social Protection earlier this year.
It’s crucial for parents to stay informed about these changes to ensure they can manage their finances effectively. Mark these dates on your calendar and plan accordingly.
Starting from May 1st, Child Benefit will be extended to individuals who are 18 years old and in full-time education, or those who have a disability, until they reach their 19th birthday. This change, initially announced in Budget 2024, was originally scheduled for September but has been expedited.
Significant Impact on Families
This new measure is set to positively impact approximately 60,000 children each year, providing much-needed support during the ongoing cost of living crisis. Families will find this additional financial assistance especially beneficial.
Eligibility Criteria Child Benefit
For children who turned 18 after May 2023 and remain in full-time education, they will become eligible again for Child Benefit from May 2024 until their 19th birthday.
If a child turns 18 after May 2024, Child Benefit will be automatically extended until their 19th birthday or the expiry date of the current education certificate, whichever comes first. The Department will reach out to parents or guardians directly if they need to submit an updated education certificate.
- Full-time education: Child Benefit extends for 18-year-olds in full-time education up to their 19th birthday.
- Disability: Children with disabilities are also covered under this benefit extension.
- Automatic extension: Child Benefit will automatically continue for children turning 18 after May 2024 until they turn 19 or their certificate expires.
By expediting this measure, the government aims to provide timely support to families, ensuring that every eligible child receives the benefits they need during these crucial years.