What is the Fuel Allowance?

If you've concerns about paying your bill, you may be entitled to the government's Fuel Allowance. A Fuel Allowance is a means-tested payment to help with the cost of heating your home during the winter months. 

You can get the Fuel Allowance if you receive long-term social welfare payments (including the state pension, disability allowance and more) and are unable to provide for your heating needs from your own resources. The Fuel Allowance season normally begins in late September of each year and ends in April. For more information, and to see if you're eligible for the payment, visit gov.ie.

The government are also offering additional supports for anyone unable to pay their energy bills:

• If you're over 70, you can get the electricity allowance as part of the government's Household Benefits package. Some people under 70 may also qualify if they meet certain criteria. The allowance is paid either as a monthly credit on a customer's bill or directly to the customer. 
• The Additional Needs Payment is a government payment available to you if you have essential expenses that you cannot pay from your weekly income. You may qualify for an Additional Needs Payment if you're working and on a low income or getting a social welfare payment.