The Government is set to sign off today on the €100 electricity bill payment for households across the country.
The once-off payment, which has been named The Electricity Costs Emergency Benefit Scheme, is designed to help people cope with the surging cost of energy bills as the cost of living continues to bite.
The plan is set to cost the State approximately €210 million with over 2 million people eligible for it.
But who qualifies for the once-off payment and do you have to be signed up to a particular energy provider to receive €100 off your electricity bill?
Here's everything you need to know from the date you'll receive the payment to those who qualify.
Who will receive the payment?
Anyone with a domestic electricity account is eligible for the one-off payment.
When will I receive the electricity payment?
Households across the country are set to receive the payment by the end of March.
Will renters receive the payment?
For renters whose bills are paid by their landlords, the "Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) will be tasked with handling disputes by renters who do not see the savings passed onto them."
Do I need to apply for the payment?
No. People will not need to apply with everyone automatically signed up, including pre-pay account holders.
Is it means-tested?
Unlike most other welfare payments, this once-off electricity payment is not means-tested.
Will I receive €100 or is it deducted from the bill?
No one will be getting €100 in the post or in their account. Instead, €100 will be deducted from electricity bills.
What if you own multiple homes?
People who own holiday homes, as well as a normal residence, can qualify for the payment. The Department states: "The scheme will apply to every domestic electricity account holder so holiday homes with a domestic electricity account in Ireland will be included in the scheme."
