Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 section 221

Amounts of child benefit

Section 221 sets out the monthly rates of child benefit payable to a qualified person, including enhanced rates for multiple births and a now-expired extension for certain 18-year-olds.

• A flat monthly child benefit of €140 is payable in respect of each qualified child.
• An extended definition of "qualified child" formerly covered 18-year-olds in full-time education or with a prolonged disability, but benefit under this extension ceased on 31 December 2009.
• Where a qualified child was part of a twin birth and both children remain qualified, benefit is paid at 150% of the standard rate; for triplets or higher multiples with at least three still qualified, it is 200%.
• If a multiple birth of three or more produces only two remaining qualified children the rate is 150%, and if only one remains qualified the standard rate applies.