Fuel Allowance payment dates confirmed - Smyth

The fuel allowance worth €33/week will begin to be paid in the coming weeks, it has been announced.

The Department of Social Protection outlined to local TD, Niamh Smyth that payments will begin on the week commencing September 24.

Deputy Smyth said, "The weekly rate of payment of €33 per week will commence in the last week of September. Similarly, the two lump sum amount of €462 (14 weeks at €33 per week) will be payable in the last week of September and January 2024 to assist people with fuelling up for the winter ahead. You qualify for the allowance if you are aged 70 or over, or getting long-term social welfare payments.

"The Fuel Allowance plays a vital role in supporting hundreds of thousands of households with their heating costs over the winter months and from September 25, the Fuel Allowance will be paid every week until the start of April.

"Last year saw the largest ever expansion of the scheme meaning tens of thousands more older people now qualify for the payment and I would encourage people to log on to see if they are eligible."

Those in receipt last year do not need to reapply for the allowance as long as their circumstances haven't changed. For new applicants the quickest and easiest way to apply is online at MyWelfare.ie.

"As a party, Fianna Fáil will not be found wanting when it comes to helping to alleviate this burden, while constantly looking for further ways to improve the lives of the people of Ireland," concluded Deputy Smyth.