Child Benefit extension to help 1,500 Laois families

An extra 1,500 Laois families are expected to benefit from an extension Child Benefit payments. 

Minister of State, Sean Fleming, has welcomed the extension of Child Benefit for 18-year-olds, who are in full-time education or have a disability. The payment will be available up until the person's 19th birthday.

According to Minister Fleming, there are over 1,500 Laois families that will benefit directly from this measure.

The Budget measure, which has been agreed by the Government, is to be introduced from May 1, 2024.

“The announcement of this extension is part of the Government’s range of supports to help families in Laois and across the country, with the cost of rearing families,” said Minister Fleming. 

“Child Benefit is a vital support for many families. Many children do not finish school until after they turn 18 years of age, so it is very important that we consider these young people and support them and their families while they continue their education,” he added. 

The Department of Social Protection will be in direct contact with each eligible family in the coming months to advise them on the next steps.