Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 section 238C

Duration of dividend

Section 238C sets out the maximum duration for which the back to work family dividend may be paid.

• The back to work family dividend is payable for a maximum of 104 weeks (2 years).
• If payment stops before the 104 weeks are up, the claimant may resume receiving the dividend for the unexpired balance, provided the original qualifying conditions are still met.
• The dividend may be paid across up to three separate periods, but the total of all periods combined must not exceed 104 weeks.
• Payment ceases when the claimant reaches pensionable age, unless they were born on or after 1 January 1958 and have notified the Minister within the prescribed time that they wish to continue receiving it for the remaining entitlement period.