People in Ireland can apply for an Additional Needs Payment if two criteria are met, which could land them a payment of up to €1,450.
The payment is designed to help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income. You are eligible if you are working and on a low income, or getting a social welfare payment.
Applicants are assessed by a Community Welfare Officer (CWO), who will look at the person’s circumstances to decide if they qualify for the payment, however, in some cases, the CWO can still provide the payment if their income exceeds the weekly household income limit.
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How to qualify for the Additional Needs Payment?
To qualify for an Additional Needs Payment, you must:
- Live in Ireland and
- Have an income below the 'weekly household income' limit, which can be found here.
How do you apply for the Additional Needs Payment?
You can apply for the scheme either online, via MyWelfare, or post your application or make an appointment with your local CWO.
However, if you post your application, the CWO may issue a payment or arrange an appointment. You can download the application here and send it to your local Community Welfare Service.
What do you need to provide when applying for the Additional Needs Payment?
You will need some of the following to apply:
- PPS number for you and people in your family that are dependent on you such as your partner or children
- Proof of your identity such as Public Services Card, Driving Licence or Passport
- Proof of address such as a household bill
- Proof of residency such as an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) or EU/EEA passport or national ID card
- Proof of income and financial situation such as payslips and bank statements
- For general information about the Community Welfare Service and application forms phone: 0818 607 080
You can learn more about this payment here.
