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The Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced that the October Bonus, part of a broader package of Cost of Living supports, will be paid next week. The bonus will provide a 100% increase in the weekly rate for eligible recipients, including pensioners, carers, and people with disabilities. This first instalment is part of a total €1.4 billion plan designed to help those most affected by the rising cost of living.

The October Bonus will benefit 1.4 million people across the country and is the first of ten lump-sum payments scheduled between now and Christmas. Minister Humphreys highlighted the importance of these payments, saying they are essential for supporting vulnerable groups, such as pensioners and families.

Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Social Protection, stated:

“As Minister for Social Protection, my priority is to support the people most seriously impacted by the cost of living. That’s why today I am announcing the first of ten lump-sum payments between now and Christmas. These will be so important in terms of supporting the likes of our pensioners, carers, people with disabilities and working families.”

The next phase of this initiative will see further payments in November, including a €300 lump sum for Fuel Allowance recipients and €200 for those receiving the Living Alone Allowance. A €400 Carers and Disability Support payment and double Child Benefit payments will follow in November and December.

Recipients do not need to apply for the October Bonus as it will be automatically disbursed. More information about the broader Budget 2025 Social Protection measures, including additional targeted supports, can be found at Gov.ie/dspbudget2025.