School and Year Start-up Payment

If you're caring for someone else's child and need help with pre-school or school-related costs at the beginning of the year, you may be able to get the School and Year Start-up Payment.

We don't think you can get this because:

None of your children are eligible for Orphan's Benefit or Unsupported Child's Benefit

How to apply for School and Year Start-up Payment

You need to apply every year between mid-January and the end of February. You'll get a letter reminding you to do this and if it's approved, it will be paid within 10 working days.

Applications are open during this time because a lot of costs associated with raising a child can come at the beginning of the year, for example pre-school or school-related costs like fees, clothing and stationery. This payment is to help take the pressure off carers at this time of the year.

You don’t need to show us any receipts or quotes to get the School and Year Start-up Payment. However, it is expected that the payment will go towards covering the child’s school-related costs, or costs arising at the start of the year.

Can't apply when applications are open

If you have a good reason for not being able to apply between mid-January and the end of February, for example being in hospital, talk to us about your situation as we may still be able to make this payment to you.

If you can apply online for more than one service, you only need to fill out the form once.