Over 850 more Leitrim families to benefit from Back-to-School Allowance
The scheme opened for applications this week and will see 2,303 families in Sligo and Leitrim automatically receive payments in July.
Over 850 more families in Leitrim are to benefit from Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance as the scheme has now been extended to children aged 2 and 3, it was announced this week.
The rate of payment for 2026 is €160 for children aged 2 to 11 and €285 for children aged 12 years and over in second-level education.
More than 109,000 families will automatically receive the allowance nationally during the week beginning 13 July, with payments being made in respect of almost 202,000 children.
The scheme opened for applications this week and will see 2,303 families in Sligo and Leitrim automatically receive payments in July. Nationally, an estimated 37,000 additional children will qualify for support this year as a result of the expansion.
Sligo-Leitrim TD Eamon Scanlon, has welcomed the announcement.
He said: "Anyone raising young children knows just how quickly they grow. Clothes and shoes need to be replaced constantly and those costs can really add up for families.
He said: "For many families, every bit of support matters. The Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance is a practical measure that helps families with the costs that come with raising children and preparing for the year ahead.
Leitrim councillor, James Gilmartin also welcomed the news. “The cost of preparing children for school and preschool can place a significant strain on household budgets, particularly for families with multiple children. Extending the allowance to include 2 and 3-year-olds recognises the reality that educational costs begin long before a child starts primary school."
He added: "I am particularly pleased that 858 families in Leitrim and 1,445 families in Sligo will automatically receive this support in July without having to make an application. This will provide real assistance to parents and guardians at a time when many households are facing ongoing financial pressures."
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Cllr Gilmartin encouraged families who do not receive an automatic notification from the Department of Social Protection to check their eligibility and apply online.
"I would urge any family who does not receive confirmation of an automatic payment to apply through MyWelfare as soon as possible. This is an important support that helps ensure every child has what they need as they prepare for the new school year."
Applications for the 2026 Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance are now open and will remain open until 30 September 2026.
For further information or to check eligibility, families can visit gov.ie/bscfa or apply through MyWelfare.ie