Thousands more homes to avail of increased fuel allowance in €400m budget spend

The 'qualification net' for the weekly fuel allowance is expected to increase significantly.

The Government is expected to increase the weekly fuel allowance rate and expand the eligibility criteria in this month's budget, which will see thousands more hard-pressed households avail of the payment.

Senior Government sources have signalled that the current weekly fuel allowance rate of €33 will increase by €4-€5, but have yet to decide if the rise will come into effect before Christmas.