In his one of his last acts as Minister for Social Protection, Leo Varadkar has announced a significant increase in the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance.

In previous years, the allowance was set at €100 for primary aged children and at €200 for children aged 12-22 in full time education.

Varadkar's announcement states that the allowance will be bumped up by 25% beginning this July, increasing the above rates to €125 and €250 respectively.

Those who have already applied for the scheme in recent years so not have to reapply and should receive a letter from the Department of Social Protection from the beginning of next week.

Those who wish to apply for this year can find application forms on the Department of Social Protection's website and from your Intreo Centre or local Social Welfare Branch Office from 16 June 2017.

To be eligible for the allowance the applicant (parent or guardian) must be receiving certain social welfare payments or payments for training, employment schemes or adult education. Total household income must also be below a certain amount.

To learn more abouth this scheme, read our informative article here.

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