The Irish Government has unveiled significant financial support for families as part of Budget 2025, including two double child benefit payments in November and December 2024, along with a one-off €420 Baby Boost Payment for new parents.
These measures aim to help families manage rising living costs and childcare expenses, especially as the holiday season approaches.
Two Double Child Benefit Payments
As part of the new measures, the Irish government has introduced two double child benefit payments for November and December 2024.
Each eligible family will receive €280 per child for both months, which doubles the regular monthly child benefit of €140. This timely boost aims to provide much-needed financial relief during the costly holiday period.
- First Payment: November 2024
- Second Payment: December 2024
This increase will help families cope with additional holiday expenses, providing substantial support to those with children.
€420 ‘Baby Boost’ Payment
Starting in January 2025, parents of babies born on or after January 1, 2025, will be eligible for the €420 Baby Boost Payment. This is a one-off payment designed to help with the initial costs of raising a newborn, such as preparing the home and purchasing essential items.
The €420 Baby Boost Payment is broken down as follows:
- €280 newborn grant at birth
- €140 for the first month’s child benefit payment
This initiative is intended to alleviate some of the financial pressures of welcoming a new baby.
Additional Child and Family Support Measures
Alongside the double child benefit and baby boost payments, Budget 2025 includes several other financial supports for families:
| Benefit | Amount | Eligible Period |
|---|---|---|
| Working Family Payment | €400 | November 2024 |
| Maternity/Paternity/Adoptive/Parent’s Benefit | €15 increase per week | From January 2025 |
| Energy Credit | €125 | November and December 2024 |
| Fuel Allowance | €300 lump sum | Winter 2024 |
| Living Alone Allowance | €200 lump sum | Budget 2025 |
These comprehensive measures provide targeted support to families dealing with higher living costs, including childcare, energy bills, and essential household expenses.
Breakdown of Child Benefit
Child Benefit is a monthly payment to parents or guardians of children under 18 in Ireland. The current benefit is €140 per month per child.
This benefit is non-means-tested, meaning families receive it regardless of income, making it an essential support for households across the country.
Other Key Family Support Measures
Budget 2025 also includes:
- Increase in the Child Support Payment (formerly IQC) starting in January 2025, with higher rates for children under and over 12.
- School Meal Program Expansion: All primary schools will be covered by the Hot School Meals Scheme by April 2025, ensuring low-income children receive nutritious meals even during holidays.
- Free School Books: Senior secondary school students will receive free school books starting in the 2024/2025 academic year.
Budget 2025 brings crucial financial support to Irish families through double child benefit payments, a €420 baby boost, and other lump sum payments.
These measures, combined with increased benefits and expanded school meal programs, offer immediate and long-term relief for families as living costs rise.
FAQs
What is the €420 Baby Boost payment?
A one-off payment for parents of babies born after January 1, 2025, to help with initial childcare costs.
How much is the double child benefit payment in November and December 2024?
Families will receive €280 per child for each double payment in both months.
When will the baby boost be paid?
Parents will receive the €420 Baby Boost starting in January 2025 for babies born on or after January 1.
What other financial supports are available in Budget 2025?
Supports include increases in maternity/paternity benefits, a €125 energy credit, a €300 fuel allowance, and a €200 living alone allowance.
Who is eligible for the double child benefit payments?
All families receiving child benefit are eligible for the double payments in November and December 2024.
