The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BSCFA) will begin issuing payments from early July 2025. If you are eligible and have been awarded the payment automatically by the Department of Social Protection, you don’t need to do anything. The money will be paid directly into your bank or post office account starting from July—usually during the first two weeks of the month.
If you’re not automatically approved and need to apply manually, you can do so online from 4 June 2025 at MyWelfare.ie using a verified MyGovID account. If approved, your payment will be processed shortly after your application is reviewed. However, keep in mind that processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications. The final date to apply is 30 September 2025, so it’s best not to delay.
Payment Rates Per Child
The amount of BSCFA you’ll receive depends on the age of your child on 30 September 2025:
- Children aged 4 to 11: €160
- Children aged 12 to 22: €285
To qualify for the higher €285 rate, children aged between 18 and 22 must be returning to full-time second-level education in a recognised school or college in the autumn.
These payments are per child, so if you have more than one child who qualifies, you’ll receive the allowance for each of them. For example, a family with one 8-year-old and one 14-year-old would get a total of €445 (€160 + €285).
It’s important to note that foster children are not eligible for the BSCFA, as foster carers already receive a separate Foster Care Allowance to help cover the cost of clothing and footwear.
Summary
- Automatic payments begin: Early July 2025
- Manual application window: 4 June – 30 September 2025
- Rates: €160 for children aged 4–11, and €285 for children aged 12–22 in second-level education
This payment is a lifeline for many households preparing for the costly return to school. If you haven’t received a notification by 4 June, be sure to check your eligibility and apply early to avoid delays. For more, visit Gov.ie/BSCFA.
When Will the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance Be Paid – and How Much Will You Get?
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