December Cost-of-Living Updates: Social Welfare Bonuses and Bills Affected
December brings financial relief to many households in Ireland, despite it being a notoriously expensive month. Increased costs from holiday shopping and energy bills can strain household budgets. However, there are several positive changes regarding social welfare and bills that can ease the financial burden.
December Cost-of-Living Updates: Social Welfare Bonuses and Bills Affected
Social Welfare Changes
Several social welfare initiatives will assist families during this challenging month.
- Fuel Allowance: This payment assists with heating expenses during the winter months. Households can receive €33 weekly for 28 weeks or two lump sum payments totaling €924. Although the current season started on September 22, 2025, individuals can still apply and remain eligible for future payments.
- Christmas Bonus: A significant one-off payment amounting to 100% of an individual’s weekly social welfare scheme will be distributed in December. Eligible recipients include those on various long-term social welfare payments, automatically receiving the bonus without needing to apply.
Eligible Social Welfare Payments for the Christmas Bonus
Individuals receiving the following payments will qualify for the Christmas Bonus:
- Back to Education Allowance
- Back to Work Enterprise Allowance
- Carer’s Allowance
- State Pension (Contributory and Non-contributory)
- Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Disability Allowance
- …and others
Reduction in Electricity Costs
In addition to social welfare improvements, many households will see a decrease in their electricity costs this December.
- Public Service Obligation (PSO) Levy: This levy, funding renewable energy initiatives, will experience a reduction. Starting December 1, 2025, domestic customers will pay €1.46 per month, down from €2.01, while small commercial customers will see their charge decrease from €7.77 to €5.65.
These financial updates for December should provide some relief for households in Ireland during an otherwise costly festive season.
