Minister for Social Solidarity Michael Farrugia said that 39,000 families are benefiting from the children's allowance, amounting to over €9,568,000 over the past three months.

Around 16,000 families are benefiting from a higher allowance since they do not earn €24,620, amounting to €5,757,000 given during the same time period.

22,782 families earn above the aforementioned amount and a total of €3,829,000 in children's allowance was given.

The Minister was discussing the simplification of processes which have been put into place today, when he said that information needed for families to receive the children's allowance will now be taken directly from the registration form required for newborns. The minimum amount will then be deposited into the family's bank account and later on the department will call up the family for further information if the family is eligible for a higher rate. It will then be deposited and backdated.

With regards to those who already have children, they can now apply online for the children's allowance at secure3.gov.mt/socialpolicy.

Another simplification process announced regards social security number applications, where people can now apply online in three categories, EU, not-EU and local.

The third process will see online applications for appeals of social benefits decisions. If an application is not approved, then one has the right for appeal in front of a tribunal, and this appeal (as well as social security number applications) can now be done online at gov.mt/servicesinformation