Applications for Back to School Allowance opened this week.

The school holidays may only be starting, but Deputy Dominic Hannigan is urging Meath parents with children who are starting school this year to apply early for the Back to School allowance.

“I am advising people who are new to the system, those with children starting school or families who due to changed circumstances now meet the criteria, to take advantage of the online application process which opened this week,” he said.

“Families who previously qualified are automatically approved and they will receive a letter shortly telling them how and when their Back to School allowance will be paid.

He said it could take six to eight weeks to process applications and receive payment so he is recommending to parents who may qualify that they apply early for the Back to School allowance.”

“Online applications are now open for new applicants at www.welfare.ie or you can pick up an application form at any Social Welfare or Intreo Office.

“The deadline for applications is the 30th September 2014,” said Deputy Hannigan