Citizens Information The Citizens Information Board
How does the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance work?
Question: What is the latest information regarding the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance?
Answer: The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BTSCFA) helps you to meet the cost of uniforms and footwear for children going to school or college. In 2012 the age limits changed, and BTSCFA is now paid to children aged from four to 22. They must be aged between four and 22 on or before September 30 of the year that you apply for the payment. Children aged between 18 and 22 must be in full-time education in a recognised school or college.
If you haven’t received a notification letter by June 21, and you are eligible for the allowance, you should make an application. Application forms are available in Tuam CIC as well as in all social welfare local offices and online at welfare.ie. You can also request a form by texting FORM BTSCFA followed by your address to 51909.
The rates have also changed in 2012. The allowance paid for each eligible child aged between four and 11 on or before September 30 2012 is €150. The allowance paid for children aged 12-22 on or before September 30 2012 is €250.
You (the parent or guardian) must be getting certain social welfare payments or payments for training, employment schemes or adult education for at least six weeks between June 1 and September 30. The scheme operates from June to September each year.
In 2012 the Department of Social Protection will pay BTSCFA automatically to a large number of qualified people. This means that many families do not have to apply for the payment. However, if you do not receive an automatic payment you must apply for the allowance. Application forms will be available in all social welfare offices and on the Department’s website welfare.ie.
The Department will examine all applications received and will post updates on welfare.ie on the progress being made in processing them. You will get a letter informing you of the decision on your application and, if it is approved, when and where you can collect your payment.
Further information is available from Tuam Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel: 0761 07 7740/Email: tuam@citinfo.ie Address: c/o Social Services Centre, Dublin Road, Tuam. Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 11am-4pm, Thursday 11am-2pm.