Extension of Child Benefit "a logical move" says Minister

The news that Child Benefit will be made available from May to children up to their 19th birthday who are in full-time education (including third level) or who have a disability has been warmly welcomed by local Green Party Minister, Pippa Hackett.

She described the move as being "logical" given that many children now start primary school at age five.. “This older school starting age, together with the increase in pupils doing transition year, has seen a gradual but steady increase in the number of 18-year-olds still in secondary education. In the region of 60,000 children will benefit from the measure annually” said the Minister.

Minister Hackett also confirmed that no action is needed at this stage by parents. The Department of Social Protection will be in contact with all the relevant recipients of Child Benefit to advise of the next steps. From May 2024, Child Benefit will be extended to a child’s 19th birthday when they are in full-time education, including third level, or for those who have a disability.

“An important point to note is that the extension of Child Benefit to 18-year-olds comes into effect in May and there will be no payment for any intervening period up to May 2024. So if you child turned 18 in the last few months, the payment will recommence in May, providing they are in full-time education or have a disability and will continue until they turn 19. No back payments will be made. For those turning 18 from May onwards, there will be no break in payment.”

“While this change to the age limit on Child Benefit is a long-term measure, I welcome it as a small but immediate support for families managing the current high costs of living” said Minister Hackett.