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There is a one-off payment that households may be eligible to claim. The payment has no limit and is paid out by the Department of Social Protection - you have to meet two conditions to avail of it. The Additional Needs Payment is a payment to help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income or other sources, and it has no payment limit. Here's everything you need to know about it and how to qualify. Who can claim? You may get an Additional Needs Payment if you are: Getting a social welfare payment, or Working and on a low income, regardless of the number of hours that you work You may get this payment even if you are not getting a social welfare payment. When you apply for the payment, your income and circumstances will be assessed to find out if you qualify. What does the Additional Needs Payment cover? You can get the Additional Needs Payment to help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income or other sources (for example savings). 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 to qualify To qualify for an Additional Needs Payment, you must: Live in Ireland, and Have an income below the 'weekly household income' limit 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 the 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 to apply You can make a paper application or apply online. When you apply for an Additional Needs Payment, your application will be assessed by a Community Welfare Officer (CWO). You will need to provide information about your weekly household income, expenses, savings and investments and those of everyone living in your household. You will also need to provide proof of the type of assistance you need. You can apply online through MyWelfare.ie. You will need a verified MyGovID account. 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.
