Fine Gael TD for Longford-Westmeath, Peter Burke, is reminding families that the Back to School Clothing Allowance will be made available again this year, and urged families who are not automatically entitled, to make an application before the August deadline.
The payment rate is €100 for each child aged four to 11 and €200 for children aged 12 to 22.
“A large proportion of Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance payments are automatic and no application is required,” Deputy Burke said. “Letters will issue in the week ending June 10 informing families of their entitlement and notifying them of the expected payment which will be made during the week ending July 15.
“Further payments will be made for applications submitted to the Department of Social Protection. Application forms will be available in Department of Social Protection offices, via the Department’s SMS form request service and by download from www.welfare.ie from June 10.
“The Back to School payment is there to assist people to meet the cost of school clothing and footwear. I have spoken to a number of parents in recent times in relation to the increasing cost of putting children and teenagers through school, and clothing and footwear puts an extra expense on families, many of whom are already struggling. I urge any parent who feels like they would be eligible under the income limits to apply - income limits can be found on the citizens information website or in your local social protection office.”
