Back to School Clothing & Footwear
€160 for each child aged 2 to 11. For children aged 12 to 22 it is €285 each.
Last checked June 2026
What it is
Annual help with the cost of kitting children out for school. Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Who can get it
- You are getting a qualifying welfare payment, or on an approved employment, education or training scheme
- You are getting a Child Support Payment for each child, with some exceptions
- Your household income is within the limits
- You and the children live in the State
- Children must be aged 2 to 17, or 18 to 22 if returning to second-level education.
- The scheme runs from June to the end of September each year.
- Many families are paid automatically and get a notice in June. If you do not get one by the end of June but you qualify, you need to apply.
How to apply
Applications go through DSP. The official page has the full eligibility rules and the application itself.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 14 June 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
Questions people ask
How much is the Back to School Allowance in 2026?
The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is €160 for each child aged 2 to 11, and €285 for each child aged 12 to 22 in second-level education.
When is the Back to School Allowance paid in 2026?
Most families are paid automatically in July and get a notice, so you do not need to apply. Check your MyWelfare account or your post.
What if I was not paid automatically?
If you qualify but were not paid automatically and did not get a notice, you need to apply yourself on MyWelfare.ie. The closing date for the 2026 allowance is 30 September 2026.
Related guides
- National Childcare Scheme
- ECCE (free preschool)
- Child Benefit
- Working Family Payment
- Back to Work Family Dividend
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