Troy welcomes age extension of Back-to-School Allowance

Local Minister of State and Longford Westmeath TD Robert Troy, has welcomed the extension of the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance to include children aged two and three for the first time.

The scheme opened for applications and will see 2,366 families in County Westmeath automatically receive payments in July.

Nationally, an estimated 37,000 additional children will qualify for support this year as a result of the expansion.

"I am delighted to see children aged two and three included in the Back-to-School Clothing and Footwear Allowance for the first time.

"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.

"This extension recognises that reality and will help parents with some of those everyday costs.

"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.

"I also want to acknowledge the work of Minister Dara Calleary and Minister Norma Foley in securing this extension, which will benefit families in Westmeath and right across the country," Minister Troy said.

The rate of payment for 2026 is €160 for children aged two to eleven 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 July 13, with payments being made in respect of almost 202,000 children.

Families who do not receive notification of an automatic payment should make an application through MyWelfare.ie, even if they received a payment last year.

Applications are now open and the closing date is September 30 2026.