The Household Benefits Package (HBP) comprises of the electricity or gas allowance, and the free television licence. Only one Household Benefits Package is payable per household. For those aged 70 or over, the HBP is not means tested and there is no requirement to be getting a qualifying payment. For those aged 66 years or over, the HBP may be payable to those who are getting a social welfare payment, or who satisfy a means test. The HBP is also available to some people under the age of 66, who are getting certain qualifying social welfare payments.
At the end of 2023, the records of my Department indicate that the HBP was in payment to some 523,000 recipients. Of these 523,000 recipients, 335,000 were over 70 and in receipt of a social welfare payment and 27,000 were over 70 and not in receipt of a social welfare payment.
It is difficult to estimate the number of people aged over 70 who may be entitled to the HBP, but have not applied. For example, some over 70's may be living with another person who is already in receipt of the HBP, some may not be resident in the State on a full-time basis, or some may be living in residential care settings.
It is open to any person to apply for the HBP. This can be done online at MyWelfare.ie or by submitting an application form to my Department. Application forms are available to download on gov.ie or at any Intreo Centre or post office.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
