Cost of Living Benefits Announced as Bills Set to Surge This September

URGENT UPDATE: Significant changes to cost of living benefits are set to impact households across Ireland this September, just as the back-to-school season and rising energy costs converge. Families are preparing for increased expenses as applications for crucial support programs open up and bills see notable hikes.

Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BSCFA) applications are now open, with payments starting the week of July 14. Parents with children aged between four and eleven on September 30 can receive a cash boost of €160. For teens aged twelve to twenty-two, the allowance increases to €285. If you did not receive notification from the Department of Social Protection (DSP) by the end of June, you must apply online even if you received this payment last year.

As autumn approaches, the Fuel Allowance season is also on the horizon, starting in late September and continuing through April. This payment is designed to assist households with winter heating costs, amounting to €33 per week for 28 weeks, or two lump sum payments totaling €924. Eligible households are encouraged to check their status and apply promptly.

In a troubling development, An Post confirmed that prices for its AddressPal service will rise due to increased customs administration fees. Effective September 5, 2025, the fee will increase from €4.95 to €5.95 for items sent from the UK and US. The postal service noted, “Customs charges and administration fees are payable by the receiver on items coming into Ireland from outside of the EU/EEA.” Customers are advised to update their delivery information to avoid complications.

Additionally, Flogas Energy has announced a 7% increase in electricity unit rates and daily standing charges, which began on August 25, 2025. This increase translates to an average annual cost rise of €126 for approximately 43,500 customers on variable-rate tariffs. Fixed-rate customers will not be affected. Managing Director Sean O’Loughlin stated, “While we understand that any price change can be challenging, this announcement reflects a 21% increase in network charges from October 2024, with further increases expected.” Customers facing financial difficulties are encouraged to reach out for support options.

These changes come at a critical time for families already grappling with rising costs. With school supplies and energy bills on the rise, households must be proactive in seeking available financial aid. The landscape of living expenses is shifting rapidly, and now is the time to ensure you are prepared.

As these developments unfold, stay tuned for more updates. Check eligibility for the BSCFA and Fuel Allowance, and make necessary adjustments to your AddressPal details to avoid disruptions. The upcoming weeks will be crucial for budgeting as families navigate these financial changes.