Working Family Payment

Working Family Payment (WFP) is a weekly tax-free payment for employees with children. It tops up your income if you're on low pay. You must be employed (at least 38 hours per fortnight for couples, 19 hours for single parents) and have at least one child under 18 (or up to 22 if in full-time education).

WFP pays 60% of the gap between your assessable family income and the income threshold for your family size. The maximum weekly payment ranges from €185 for 1 child to €360 for 8+ children. Income disregards apply for housing costs (up to €30/week) and childcare (up to €15/week).

Income thresholds for 2026 (estimated): 1 child €520-€680/week, 2 children €550-€710, 3 children €580-€740, 4 children €610-€770, 5 children €640-€800, 6+ children €670-€890. The threshold varies by couple vs single applicant.

No, WFP is completely tax-free. It is paid directly into your bank account every week by the Department of Social Protection. It does not affect your tax credits or rate band and is not subject to USC or PRSI.

Your assessable income = gross weekly income minus disregards (30% of housing costs up to €30 + 60% of childcare up to €15). WFP = 60% of the gap between assessable income and the family size threshold. Max payment caps apply.

Yes, WFP is based on joint household income for couples. Both partners must be working at least 38 hours combined per fortnight. The income thresholds for couples are higher than for single applicants (e.g., €710 vs €550 for 2 children).

WFP is awarded for 52 weeks (1 year) at a fixed rate based on your income at application. Even if your income increases during the year, your payment stays the same until renewal. This encourages people to take on extra hours without fear of losing the payment.

WFP was formerly called Family Income Supplement (FIS). The name changed in 2024 with a new application system, but the calculation rules remain largely the same. If you were on FIS, you'll be moved to WFP automatically at renewal.

WFP can be paid alongside Child Benefit, Working Family Payment, and most other social welfare payments. However, you cannot get WFP if you are getting Jobseeker's Allowance, Jobseeker's Benefit, or One-Parent Family Payment.

You apply online through MyWelfare.ie. You need your PPS number, employment details, recent payslips, and bank account details. The DSP assesses your application within 2-4 weeks. Payments are backdated to the Monday after your application date.

No, WFP is completely separate from the tax system. It does not affect your tax credits, rate band, or any other Revenue-related entitlements. It is administered by the Department of Social Protection, not Revenue.

WFP is for employees only. Self-employed people are not eligible for Working Family Payment. However, self-employed people on low income may qualify for other supports like the Back to Work Family Dividend or Jobseeker's Transitional Payment.