Advice from the Citizens Information Service

What is the Additional Needs Payment?

The Additional Needs Payment is a payment to help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income. You may get an Additional Needs Payment, if you are working and on a low income, or getting a social welfare payment. When you apply for the payment, your income and circumstances will be assessed to find out if you qualify. You may get this payment even if you are not getting a social welfare payment. You can make a paper application or apply on-line. You can get a form from your local CIC.

What can I get the Additional Needs Payment for?

You can get the Additional Needs Payment to help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income. For example:

• An increase in your fuel or electricity costs
• Essential repairs to property, including, replacing household appliances and furniture
• Funeral costs
• Deposits for private rented accommodation
• Bedding and cooking utensils, if you are setting up home for the first time
• Food, clothing and shelter after an emergency event such as a fire or flood
• Recurring travel costs to hospital for appointments, or for visiting a relative in hospital or prison
• Prams, buggies, cots, or essential child safety equipment

This is not a complete list, other expenses can be covered too.

How does one qualify for an 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 for your household size e.g. €564 for a single person, €664 for a couple with no children. The amount increases for families e.g. €866 for a family with 2 children, €967 if there are 3 children and €1,058 if there are 4 children and so on. When you apply for an Additional Needs Payment your application will be assessed by a Community Welfare Officer (CWO). The CWO will take into account your weekly household income, your savings and investments, your household expenses and the type of assistance you need. They will look at your circumstances and decide if you qualify for the payment. In some cases, the CWO can provide a payment if your income is above the weekly household income limit, but it will depend on your circumstances.

How much is an Additional Needs Payment?

There is no set rate for an Additional Needs Payment. The amount you get will depend on your circumstances and what you need help with.

How can I apply for the Additional Needs Payment?

You can apply online through MyWelfare.ie. To apply online, you will need a verified MyGovID account. Alternatively, you can complete a paper application form. You can post your application for an Additional Needs Payment or make an appointment with your local CWO, if you prefer. If you post your application, the CWO may issue a payment or arrange an appointment to meet with you. You can get an application form from your local Citizens Information Centre.

If you need further information about this topic or you have other questions, you can drop-in to the Citizens Information Service in Bantry or ring 0818 07 8390. They will be happy to assist you. WEST CORK HELPLINE 0818 07 8390

The offices are staffed from 10am -5pm from Monday to Thursday and on Friday from 10am -4pm. Alternatively you can email on [email protected] or log on to
www.citizensinformation.ie