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Woman handing woman euro banknotes in a stock image(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\nForecasts are showing a harsh winter might be on the wayWoman handing woman euro banknotes in a stock image(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\n
Temperatures are expected to drop significantly in the coming days<\/a> following a relatively mild start to November.<\/p>\n Met E\u0301ireann has forecast: “Generally relatively mild for the time of year<\/a>, and while it’ll be somewhat cooler at first with temperatures closer to average, there’s little danger of frost.”<\/p>\n As the winter months approach, colder weather will inevitably mean increased use of home heating systems<\/a>.<\/p>\n Inside secluded Galway five-bedroom home on the market for \u20ac380,000<\/a>Largest supermoon of the year visible from Ireland this week<\/a><\/p>\n Whilst keeping warm and comfortable indoors is essential, the associated costs remain substantial amid the continuing cost of living crisis.<\/p>\n Fortunately, financial support is available for those who qualify – including the Household Benefits Package.<\/p>\n The Household Benefits Package (HBP) provides assistance towards electricity or gas bills, and also includes a Free Television licence.<\/p>\n Living alone is not a requirement for the Household Benefits Package, though only one person per household may claim it.<\/p>\n Anyone aged 70 or over qualifies for the Household Benefits Package, regardless of whether they receive a State pension, and the package is not means tested.<\/p>\n Those under 70 may also be eligible for the HBP, subject to additional criteria.<\/p>\n The complete eligibility requirements can be found here.<\/p>\n What’s included?<\/p>\n The Household Benefits Package comprises two allowances:.<\/p>\n Allowance 1<\/p>\n Electricity Allowance (\u20ac1.15 per day).<\/p>\n or<\/p>\n Gas Allowance (\u20ac1.15 per day).<\/p>\n Allowance 2<\/p>\n Free Television Licence If you have both an electricity and gas supply, you’re required to choose between the Electricity Allowance and Gas Allowance. Only one can be selected.<\/p>\n The Allowance does not cover the cost of installing an electricity or natural gas supply to your home.<\/p>\n For all the latest breaking news headlines today, visit our website home page<\/a>.<\/p>\n Earlier this year, it was reported that new applicants to the scheme will no longer be able to avail of a \u20ac35 monthly credit towards their electricity or gas bill, but will instead receive the payment into a nominated bank or post office account. Existing customers can continue to receive the credit unless they opt to change supplier.<\/p>\n How to apply<\/p>\n You can apply online for the Household Benefits Package using MyWelfare.ie, if you have a MyGovID account.<\/p>\n If you cannot apply online, you can fill in the Household Benefit Package application form and return it to the Household Benefits Package section of the Department of Social Protection.<\/p>\n For all the latest breaking news headlines today, visit our website home page<\/a>.<\/p>\n Galway Beo\u2019s top stories and breaking news service on WhatsApp.<\/p>\n