3,600 payments for families in Mayo for Back-to-School Allowance

Families across Mayo will receive the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance this week, Minister of State, Alan Dillon, has said.

The payment from the Department of Social Protection supports eligible families with the cost of school uniforms and footwear ahead of the upcoming school term.

The scheme has been extended this year to include children aged 2 and 3 for the first time. As a result of this extension, it is estimated that approximately 37,000 additional children will qualify for the allowance this year.

Minister Dillon said: “3,607 payments will be made this week to families in Mayo eligible for the allowance. The total value of payments for Mayo is €1,457,270 and will undoubtedly be a great support to families over the coming weeks as uniforms and school shoes are bought.”

The rates of payment for the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance are €160 for children aged 2 to 11, and €285 for children aged 12 years and over in second level education.

Overall, payments totalling more than €48.8 million will be made this week to over 126,000 families, in respect of over 233,000 children. A notification of the automated payment is sent to families by post or through their MyWelfare account.

Minister Dillon added: “I would encourage any family in Mayo who think they may be eligible for the payment to check their entitlement. The scheme remains open until September 30.”

Further information on the eligibility criteria for the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is available here.