The Ministry for Social Policy and Children’s Rights has begun implementing the first six of 53 measures assigned to it under Budget 2026. These measures affect families with children under 16, fostering families, and couples or single individuals with low incomes. As a result, more than €26 million in benefits will be distributed to 61,200 families by the end of this week. This was announced by Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights Michael Falzon during a press conference.
Minister Falzon explained that these advance payments, covering the first quarter of 2026, have been issued annually for the past 12 years. He noted that investment in the Children’s Allowance “has doubled over the last 12 years,” with the largest allocation reaching 42,000 families with 62,200 children under 16. Improvements primarily impact 10,800 families with relatively low or medium income, as the income cap determining higher rates has been raised from €27,434 to €30,000.
Over six years, eligible parents receiving the maximum rate will see their annual income increase by €1,007, or 76%, to €2,239. Permanent Secretary Mark Musu added that fostering families are receiving an annual increase of €520, bringing the allowance to €6,760 per child, the fourth increase since 2018. Children with disabilities under 16 will also receive an extra €35 per week in addition to the Children’s Allowance. The Supplementary Allowance has also been strengthened, benefiting over 19,000 individuals with an investment of €5.2 million, while its additional annual grant has increased from €100 to €250.
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