When will Social Welfare payments be made after Christmas? Early bonus expected for some

Social welfare payments for some people are expected to come early this year, ahead of the new year. 

As New Year’s day falls on a Monday for 2024, people are expected to receive their social welfare payments early as the Department of Social Protection confirmed a new date.

It was confirmed that social welfare payments that are due to be paid on 1 January 2024 will instead be given to those eligible for the schemes on 29 December 2023.

There were also some date changes for Christmas. If you receive a weekly social welfare payment, you will get your payment as usual during the week commencing Monday 18th December, and an advanced payment for the following week.

All department offices, including Intreo Centres and Branch Offices will be closed on Monday, 25 December, Tuesday, 26 December 2023 and Monday, 1 January 2024.

The Department of Social Protection added that if you are leaving the state over the Christmas period and you are getting income support from the Department of Social Protection you should let them know of your absence in advance of travel, you can do this by visiting your local Intreo Centre or Branch Office.

Speaking about the festive holidays, Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys said: “I would like to advise people to be mindful that the dates of their payments may change over the Christmas period.

“I’m therefore today setting out the payment schedule so that everyone knows in advance when a payment from my Department is due.

Christmas is a time for celebration, enjoyment and relaxation, particularly for families and children.

“But I know it can be a stressful time too. My Department will continue to roll-out millions of payments over the Christmas and New Year period, supporting the likes of our pensioners, carers and people with disabilities.

“I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year”.