Money

Whether it’s paying the bills, making sure you are receiving the right benefits, or looking for ways to get your partner to pay maintenance, money worries are a problem for many people who parent alone. Click on the links below to read more, and if you want to connect with people in your situation, why not join us or call our askonefamily helpline 1890 662212.

Changes from Budget 2012  click here

One-Parent Family Payment
The One-Parent Family Payment is payable to men and women, parenting alone without the support of a partner.

Child Benefit
Child Benefit is a monthly payment made to the parents or guardians of children under 15 years of age, or under 18 if the child is in full-time education, attending Youthreach or has a disability.

Secondary Benefits

Fuel Allowance
Fuel Allowance helps with the cost of heating your home during the colder months.

Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance
This payment aims at supporting families with the cost of school uniforms and footwear.

Rent Supplement
This means tested payment can help towards paying your rent.

Family Income Supplement (FIS)
If you work 19 hours or more a week you may be eligible for this payment to working families on a lower income.

Back to Education Allowance
This scheme can enable a lone parent to go back to approved second or third level education.

Maternity Benefit
Maternity Benefit is a payment made to women who are on maternity leave from work and covered by social insurance (PRSI).

One Parent Family Tax Credit
Check your Tax Certificate to see if you have all the credits you may be entitled to.

Medical Card
If your sole income is social welfare then you will be eligible for a medical card.

GP Visit Card
If you are not eligible for a Medical card, as assessed by the HSE then you may be considered for a GP visit card.