Parents across Scotland are being urged to apply for a one-off payment worth more than £330 to help with the costs of a child starting primary school. Applications for Best Start Grant School Age Payment opened in June and ensure eligible families receive a one-off payment of £339.65 to help cover expenses associated with starting school.
Who is eligible for the payment?
The benefit is available to families with children born between March 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022, who meet the qualifying criteria. School Age Payment is part of the Best Start Grant package administered by Social Security Scotland and is designed to help families with the additional costs that often arise when a child starts primary one.
The payment can be used however families choose, whether that is helping to buy school uniforms, shoes, clothing, bags, lunches, learning materials or other essentials.
How to apply and key dates
Social Security Scotland has reminded families that they do not need to wait until their child actually starts school before applying. Parents who are planning to defer their child's school start date can still qualify for the payment, while children who will not attend school may also be eligible.
Families have until February 28, 2027 to submit an application. Some households will not need to apply at all. Families already receiving Scottish Child Payment who are eligible for School Age Payment should receive the money automatically and do not need to complete an application.
Qualifying benefits and next steps
Whether a family can receive the payment depends on the child's age and when they are first old enough to start primary school, which is typically between four and five years old. The latest application round is expected to provide financial support to thousands of families across Scotland as children prepare to begin primary education over the coming year.
Applications are now open for children born between March 1, 2021, and February 28, 2022. The payment is worth £339.65 per eligible child. Families may qualify if they receive certain benefits, including Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit, Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, or Income-related Employment and Support Allowance. Parents can check the full eligibility rules and apply through Social Security Scotland.
