€160 for each child aged 2 to 11 on 30 September, and €285 for each child aged 12 to 22. From 18, the child must be going back to full-time secondary school. The rates are the same for 2027.

What are the income limits?

In 2026, household income must be under €726.70 a week with 1 child and €804.70 with 2. It's €882.70 with 3 and €960.70 with 4, plus €78 for each child after that.

Does Working Family Payment count as income?

No. Working Family Payment is a qualifying payment for it, but it isn't counted as income. Pay from work is counted before tax, less PRSI and €20 a week for travel.

Work and social welfare

Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance

Whether you can get the €160 or €285 a child for school clothes and shoes, and how close you are to the income limit.

Self-assessment tool. The figures come from your own answers. It isn't advice, and you're responsible for what you file or claim. heypenny.ie is a trading name of Kinch Press. Read the disclaimer.

Common questions

How much is it?: €160 for each child aged 2 to 11 on 30 September, and €285 for each child aged 12 to 22. From 18, the child must be going back to full-time secondary school. The rates are the same for 2027.
What are the income limits?: In 2026, household income must be under €726.70 a week with 1 child and €804.70 with 2. It's €882.70 with 3 and €960.70 with 4, plus €78 for each child after that.
Does Working Family Payment count as income?: No. Working Family Payment is a qualifying payment for it, but it isn't counted as income. Pay from work is counted before tax, less PRSI and €20 a week for travel.

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