I read your recent legal column about Social Welfare payment dates. I know this is not a legal question, but I wonder if you are aware of any additional payment for someone who is struggling with a large bill that I simply have no funds to meet. It is causing me sleepless nights. I would appreciate your help.
Thank you for your letter. There is a welfare payment called Additional Needs Payment which may be of interest to you. It was introduced in the last couple of years, and is designed to help meet expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income.
You may get an Additional Needs Payment if you are currently receiving a social welfare payment, or if you are working and on a low income. However, there is also provision to qualify for this this payment even if you are not receiving a social welfare payment.
When you apply for the payment, your income and circumstances will be assessed to find out if you qualify.
You can get the Additional Needs Payment to help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income such as increased 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 list is not exhaustive, other
expenses can be covered too.
There is no set rate for an Additional Needs Payment amount. The amount you receive will depend on your circumstances and what you need help with. An application may be made online or with a paper application to your local Community Welfare Officer.