Carey confirms budget lump sum payment dates 

Confirming payment dates for ten financial supports announced in Budget 2025, Clare Fine Gael General election candidate Leonora Carey said it formed part of  the largest social protection budget package in the history of the State. 

“The blend of lump-sum payments to support people over the winter months together with in weekly rates and a range of targeted supports is designed to ease the financial pressure facing thousands of households across County Clare.” 

“This month marks the start of a comprehensive package of ten financial supports totalling over €1.4 billion nationwide and people will see immediate benefits from these measures. The payments are designed to ease the financial strain on families, pensioners, carers, and people with disabilities.

“An October Double Payment will be made this month, benefiting 1.4 million people. In November and December, there will be two double payments of Child Benefit, helping 678,000 families and over 1.2 million children.

“Throughout November, further supports will be rolled out. A €400 Disability Support Grant will be provided along with a €400 relief payment to those receiving the Working Family Payment. A €200 payment will also go to nearly 254,000 recipients of the Living Alone Allowance.

“In the same week of November, a €300 Fuel Allowance Lump Sum will be paid to over 387,000 households, ensuring that heating costs are covered as we head into the colder months. 

“Minister Humphreys has also secured an expansion of the Fuel Allowance Scheme, meaning many more households in Clare will receive assistance with energy costs starting in January.

“Further relief includes a €400 Carer’s Support Payment, which will be distributed during the week of November 11 to carers nationwide.

“At the end of November, families with children will receive additional support through a €100 child payment, which will assist 340,000 children. And finally, the Christmas Bonus Double Payment will be issued in the first week of December to support those most in need during the holiday season.”

“This level of support is only possible thanks to Fine Gael’s careful management of the economy. Ireland is in a position to provide this financial relief without having to borrow. Additionally, we have a €6 billion reserve fund set aside to address any unforeseen challenges in the coming year,” Ms Carey added.