Social welfare: Six changes you have to tell department about if receiving child benefit in Ireland

The Department of Social Protection (DSP) has listed a number of changes that need to be confirmed in writing by all parents in receipt of the Child Benefit payment in Ireland.

Child Benefit is a monthly payment to the parents or guardians of children who are under 18, while they are in full-time education, full-time training, or if they have a disability and cannot support themselves.

You'll have to tell the DSP in writing about the following changes in circumstances that could affect your Child Benefit claim:

1. A change your address

2. If your child no longer lives with you or is no longer in your care

3. If you have started using a different bank or post office for your benefit payments

4. If your child, who is aged 16 or 17, leaves full-time education

5. If you or your children leave Ireland

6. Should you or your partner begin work in another country

Should any of these changes apply to your circumstances, you can use Form CB56 to inform the DSP.

Child Benefit is currently €140 a month for each child and is paid on the first Tuesday of every month.

Following Brexit, the Department also confirmed there will be no changes to your Child Benefit allowance in Ireland under the following circumstances:

1. If you work in the UK and live in Ireland - you will continue to get your UK Child Benefit payment and Irish Child Benefit supplement.

2. If you work in Ireland and live in the UK - you will continue to get your Irish Child Benefit payment.

3. If you work and live in Ireland with your children, and your partner (spouse, civil partner, or cohabitant) works in the UK - you should apply for Child Benefit in Ireland.

If you make false or misleading statements to try to get Child Benefit for yourself, or for any other person, you could be prosecuted - resulting in a fine, a prison term, or both.