I would like your help if possible, please. I am a pensioner, and my sole income is my State pension. I am worried about having very high heating bills as a result of the recent bad weather. What happens if I cannot meet the bills?
I would advise you to contact your local Community Welfare Officer at your local Department of Social Protection office and enquire about a welfare payment called Additional Needs Payment. This payment is designed to help meet expenses that a person cannot pay from their weekly income such as increased fuel or electricity costs.
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.