Q.  I’m living alone, aged over 70 and getting the Household Benefits Package. I understand it has been affected by Budget 2013. Can you tell me what the changes are?

10.01.13

Yes, the value of the Electricity/Gas Allowance and the Telephone Allowance will be reduced for new and existing recipients from January 2013. The Electricity Allowance is being adjusted from a unit-based allowance to a fixed amount of €35 per month. The Gas Allowance was previously paid at different winter and summer rates. From January 2013 it will be paid at a new standard monthly rate of €35. These allowances can be paid either as a credit on your bill or as a cash allowance, depending on your supplier and your payment method.

The Telephone Allowance is a payment towards your mobile phone or your landline phone bill. The value of this allowance will be reduced from €22.58 to a new monthly rate of €9.50. This will show as a credit on your bill or can be paid as a cash allowance. There is no change to the Free TV Licence, the Fuel Allowance, Free Travel or Living Alone Allowance.

Citizens Information: Buncrana 0761 075490; Carndonagh 0761 075500

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