Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 February 2024
388. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection if parents have any action to take on the change to child benefit being rolled out in May 2024 for dependants up to the age of 18 years and still in full time education; how will these dependants be recognised to continue in payment of child benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7972/24]
View answerChild Benefit is a monthly payment made to families with children up to the age of 16 years. Currently, the payment continues to be paid in respect of children until their 18th birthday who are in full-time education, or who have a disability.
I have secured approval to bring forward, from September to May, the extension of Child Benefit for 18-year-olds who are in full-time education or who have a disability.
From May 1st, Child Benefit will be paid to anyone who is 18 and in full-time education (including 3rd level), or who has a disability, up until their 19th birthday.
The measure is expected to benefit some 60,000 children annually.
In the case of a child who is 18 and still in full-time education, they will be eligible again from May 2024 up to their 19th birthday.
My Department will be in contact with all recipients of Child Benefit over the coming months to advise of the next steps.
