As the festive season approaches, it’s essential for social welfare recipients in Ireland to be aware of changes to payment schedules.
The Department of Social Protection has announced specific adjustments to ensure timely disbursements during Christmas and New Year.
Standard Weekly Payments
For payments due on December 16, 17, 18, 19, and 20, there will be no changes; recipients will receive their payments as usual.
However, payments scheduled for December 23, 24, 25, 26, and 27 will be issued earlier, during the week beginning December 16. This means that many will receive an advance payment to cover the holiday period.
New Year’s Payment Adjustments
Payments initially set for January 1, 2025, will now be processed on December 31, 2024, ensuring recipients have access to funds before the New Year.
Casual and Part-Time Jobseekers
Individuals claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit on a casual or part-time basis should note the following:
- Docket Submission: Ensure that dockets for the signing weeks ending December 17 and 24 (for Jobseeker’s Allowance) or December 18 and 25 (for Jobseeker’s Benefit) are submitted in advance.
- Payment Dates: Upon timely submission, two payments covering these periods will be deposited on December 20.
- Resumption of Normal Schedule: Regular payment arrangements for the weeks ending December 31 and January 1 will recommence on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.
Illness Benefit Recipients
Those receiving Illness Benefit should continue to send in their ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’ throughout the Christmas and New Year period to ensure uninterrupted payments.
Department Office Closures
All Department of Social Protection offices, including Intreo Centres and Branch Offices, will be closed on December 25 and 26, 2024, as well as on January 1, 2025.
| Payment Due Date | Revised Payment Date | Applicable To | Notes | Office Closures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 16-20, 2024 | No Change | All Recipients | ||
| December 23-27, 2024 | Week of December 16, 2024 | All Recipients | Advance Payment | |
| January 1, 202 … | December 31, 202 … | All Recipients | ||
| December 25-26, 2024 | Offices Closed | |||
| January 1, 202 … | Offices Closed |
Understanding the changes to social welfare payment schedules during the festive season is crucial for managing finances effectively.
With advance payments and adjustments made to accommodate Christmas and New Year holidays, recipients can plan ahead and avoid unnecessary disruptions.
Staying informed about submission deadlines, revised dates, and office closures ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Will my payment date change if it’s scheduled between December 16 and 20?
No, payments due on December 16 – 20 will be made on their usual dates.
What if my payment is due between December 23 and 27?
Payments scheduled for these dates will be issued earlier, during the week starting December 16.
How are New Year’s payments affected?
Payments due on January 1, will be processed on December 31, 2024.
