By the end of this week, the first installments of the In-Work Benefit and the Carer’s Grant for the current year will be distributed. This follows the recent disbursements of the Carers Allowance and the Carers Supplement. Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, made this announcement.
The initial three-month payment of the In-Work Benefit, covering January to March 2024, will reach over 23,262 recipients, totaling almost €3.5 million for the first quarter. Among these recipients, 1,023 will receive letters to provide their IBAN numbers for payment processing, as they are new beneficiaries.
The In-Work Benefit payment will also include the promised €50 increase per child annually, as outlined in the Budget 2024. Minister Falzon emphasizes that this increase complements the existing In-Work Benefit threshold, extending support to more families. He underscores the significance of social investment in these four benefits, totaling nearly €8.2 million and benefiting 25,324 families.
Additionally, another payment scheduled for this week is the Carer’s Grant, provided to parents unable to work due to caring for a disabled child over 16, who qualifies for Severe Disability Assistance. Permanent Secretary Mark Musu explains that this benefit, which initially began at €300, has now risen to almost €5,000 annually, equivalent to half the minimum net wage.
Effective January 2024, reflecting the increase in the National Minimum Wage along with the COLA raise, the payment will total €4,997. Eligible recipients will receive €1,249.25 every three months. Furthermore, starting this year, Carer’s Grant beneficiaries will enjoy an annual increase of nearly €500. In total, there are 416 beneficiaries, with an investment of almost €520,000 for the first quarter.
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