Nearing 2025, Ireland still hasn't paid its cost of living bonuses

DUBLIN, Ireland: As the year draws to a close, thousands across the country are set to benefit from additional cost-of-living payments aimed at easing financial pressures.

These payments, part of the government's 1.2 billion-euro social welfare package announced in Budget 2025, are designed to support families, pensioners, carers, and people with disabilities.

The Social Protection budget, the largest in the State's history, includes a mix of lump sums, targeted supports, and weekly payment increases. While many of the ten bonus payments outlined in the budget have already been distributed, three key payments are still scheduled for the coming weeks.

Week starting November 25
Recipients of the Child Support Grant (formerly the Qualified Child Allowance) will receive a 100-euro bonus payment.

Week starting December 2
A second once-off double payment of Child Benefit will be issued on December 3, providing additional support to families with children.
During the same week, the Christmas Bonus Double Payment will be distributed, benefitting a wide range of social welfare recipients.

In October, over 1.4 million households received a double social welfare payment, and similar support will extend to the same groups in December, ensuring additional financial relief during the holiday season.

Supporting the most vulnerable

Budget 2025 prioritized those most affected by rising costs, with Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys emphasizing that the payments aim to provide timely and meaningful assistance.

The remaining payments will help families navigate the festive season while addressing broader financial challenges caused by the rising cost of living.

For those eligible, these payments offer much-needed support during a period often marked by financial strain, ensuring a more secure transition into the new year.