A SCHEME providing a one-off financial boost of more than £500 to eligible households struggling with the rising cost of living has been brought forward to this summer.
Just under £2.3m has been set aside for this year’s Community Costs Bonus.
The payment is normally made in the autumn, but Social Security Minister Lyndsay Feltham has decided that, for a second year, the payment window should begin in July.
The payment was previously £258.25, but was increased to £516.50 in 2022.
While inflationary pressures have reduced, Deputy Feltham decided that the enhanced rate should be maintained in 2025.
Applications will open on 14 July, running until 30 June 2026.
However, those who have previously received the bonus will not need to apply and will instead be paid automatically.
A report explaining the Ministerial decision explained that this was “in order to save time and administration (for both islanders and government)”.
Eligibility criteria
Eligibility is based on three main criteria for those living in domestic accommodation: a low household income tax liability (no more than £2,735 for 2024), at least one adult having lived in Jersey for the past five years, and the household not receiving income support at the time of application.
Residents in care homes can also qualify under slightly different conditions, provided they are not receiving means-tested long-term care support in the week prior to application.
Anyone who does not receive an automatic payment can apply online via www.gov.je/CCB, by phone on 444444, or in person at the Government of Jersey building on Union Street.
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