Check the adjustment to Social Welfare payments. November brings a wave of cost of living bonuses in Ireland, providing welcome relief as the holiday season approaches. While Social Security will issue the 2025 COLA from December 31 onward.
As Christmas draws near, the Department of Social Protection has announced important adjustments to social welfare payment dates to accommodate the festive period.
New pay dates in Ireland
- Payments for 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20 December will remain unchanged.
- Payments originally scheduled for 23, 24, 25, 26, and 27 December will be processed earlier, starting the week of 16 December.
For those expecting payments on 1 January, the Department has ensured these will be made on 31 December. This ensures you have your funds ahead of time to start the New Year.
The Department of Social Protection has clarified: “If you receive a weekly social welfare payment, expect to receive your regular payment during the week commencing Monday 16 December, along with an advanced payment for the following week.”
This schedule applies irrespective of whether you receive your payment at a post office, by cheque, or directly into your financial institution account. Be assured that your payments are being managed with the utmost care during this busy time of year.
The Department recently announced a significant update regarding Jobseeker’s Allowance and Jobseeker’s Benefit. If you’re claiming on a casual basis and have been provided dockets in advance, you’ll receive two payments for the weeks ending on 17 and 24 December for Jobseeker’s Allowance, or 18 and 25 December for Jobseeker’s Benefit. These payments will be deposited into your accounts on 20 December.
Payment Schedule Adjustments
As for the week ending 31 December and 1 January, normal payment arrangements will resume on Tuesday, 7 January 2025. If you are an Illness Benefit customer, remember to continue submitting your ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’ during the Christmas and New Year period.
Social Welfare News: Budget 2025
In other social welfare updates, Budget 2025 has introduced a total of 10 lump sum payments. Last month, more than 1.4 million people received the October double payment, the first cash boost of this kind.
Upcoming Cost of Living Supports
This week, starting November 4th, will bring the disbursement of four cost of living supports:
- €400 Working Family Payment
- €400 Disability Support Grant
- €300 lump sum payment for households receiving the Fuel Allowance
These financial aids aim to alleviate the financial pressures many are facing, providing timely support as the year comes to a close.