The fuel allowance is a payment to help with the cost of heating your home during the winter months in Ireland. The fuel allowance season normally begins in late September of each year and ends in April. This year’s fuel allowance season started on Monday, 25 September 2023, and will be paid for 28 weeks (until 5 April 2024) . The current rate of fuel allowance is €33 per week. You can choose to get the fuel allowance paid every week or paid in 2 instalments (lump sums) . To qualify for fuel allowance, you must live alone or only with certain people listed on the official website. You cannot get fuel allowance if your heating costs are provided in full as part of your accommodation.
To get fuel allowance, you must be receiving a qualifying social welfare payment from Ireland, the EU, or Switzerland, or satisfy a means test if you are aged 70 or over. You can have income of up to €500 per week, or €1000 per week for a couple, and still qualify for fuel allowance. Your capital (savings, property, and investments) are also assessed. The first €50,000 of your capital is not included in the means test.
Only one person per household can receive this payment. If someone in your household is already receiving this payment, you should not apply. If a member of your household is aged 70 or over, they should apply as they may qualify more easily.
To apply for fuel allowance, you need to fill in a fuel allowance scheme application form. It is best practice to apply before the start of the winter season (early October). Please be aware that the Department of Social Protection cannot backdate your allowance.
