Benefits and entitlements

Carer’s Allowance is for those on a low income caring for someone who needs support because of age, disability or illness (including mental illness). It is a means-tested weekly from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.

If you are on a low income and you are caring for someone who needs support due to their cancer, you may be eligible for either Carer’s Allowance or Carer's Benefit. 

What is the rate of payment?

Carer’s Allowance rates 

If you are receiving Carer’s Allowance, you may also be entitled to:

• Household Benefits Package
• A Free Travel Pass 
• Carer’s Support Grant 

Who can apply?

To qualify for Carer’s Allowance, you must:

• Live with and care for or be in a position to provide full-time care to a person in need of care who does not normally live in an institution
• Meet the habitual residence condition - this means that you have lived in Ireland for some time and intend to stay in Ireland for the foreseeable future
• Not live in a hospital, convalescent home or other similar institution
• Be at least 18 years old
• Not be engaged in work or education courses outside the home for more than 18.5 hours a week
• Show that your income is below a certain level (means test)

Sarah’s mum has been diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer and her doctor has advised that she needs full-time care at home. Sarah (22) had been attending college and living at home. She has decided to take some time off to take care of her mum. As she has no other income currently, Sarah should apply for the Carer’s Allowance. She can get help filling in the application form from her local Citizens Information office.

How do I apply?

You should apply for Carer’s Allowance as soon as possible.

You can apply by filling out a CR1 application form, which is available on the Department of Social Protection website.

With your application you must include a doctor’s medical report that is also signed by the person you will be caring for.

Return your application, with the relevant supporting documentation, to:

Social Welfare Services Office
Government Buildings
Ballinalee Road
Longford, N39 E4E0

OR

You can visit your local Social Welfare Office or Intreo Centre to complete and submit an application.

The information above is an overview of Carers Allowance

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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Carer’s Benefit is a weekly payment for full-time carers of people with cancer and other illnesses from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.

It is for people who pay PRSI and have had to leave the workforce to care for someone who is in need of full-time care.

What is the rate of payment?

Carer’s Benefit rates 

If you are getting Carer’s Benefit, you may also be entitled to:

• A GP Visit Card  
• Carer’s Support Grant

Who can apply?

To qualify for Carer’s Benefit, you must:

• Be aged 16 or over
• Have been employed for at least 8 weeks in the previous 26-week period and left work in order to be a full-time carer
• Meet the PRSI contribution conditions
• Be able to provide medical certification for the person being cared for
• Not take part in employment, self-employment, training or education courses outside the home for more than 18.5 hours a week

Eoin (54) is a teacher and his wife has been undergoing treatment for colon cancer. Her doctor has advised that she will soon need full-time care at home. Eoin has decided to take Carer’s Leave from work to take care of his wife.  As he has been working in the same school for several years, he has enough PRSI contributions to apply for Carer’s Benefit. Eoin should apply for Carer’s Benefit 10 weeks before he leaves work. He will need his employer’s and his wife’s signatures, as well as a medical report from her doctor. Eoin may qualify for Carer’s Benefit for up to 104 weeks.

How do I apply?

It is recommended that you apply for Carer’s Benefit 10 weeks before you leave work.

To apply, visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and complete form CARB1. You will need your employer’s signature, as well as the signature of the person for whom you are caring and a medical report from their doctor.

Return the application form, and the relevant supporting documentation, to:

Carer’s Benefit Section
Social Welfare Services Office
Government Buildings
Ballinalee Road
Co. Longford

Or

You can visit your local Social Welfare Office or Intreo Centre to complete and submit an application.

The information above is an overview of Carers Benefit

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Carer’s Support Grant (formerly Respite Care Grant) is an annual payment made to carers by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.

If you care for someone with cancer and are in receipt of Carer's Allowance, Carer's Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance, then you will automatically receive a Carer’s Support Grant.

Carers can use the grant in whatever way they wish. You can use the grant to pay for respite care if you wish, but you do not have to do so.

What is the rate of payment?

A Carer's Support Grant of €1,850 is paid once each year, usually on the first Thursday in June, for each person you are caring for. It is not taxable.

Who can apply?

The grant is paid automatically to people getting Carer's Allowance, Carer's Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance.

It can also be paid to certain other carers. To qualify, you must be:

• Aged 16 or over
• Ordinarily resident in the State
• Living with the person being cared for or, if not, be contactable quickly by a direct system of communication (for example, telephone or alarm)
• Caring for the person on a full-time basis
• Caring for the person for at least 6 months

During this 6-month caring period, you cannot:

• Work more than 18.5 hours per week outside the home
• Take part in an education or training course for more than 18.5 hours a week
• Get Jobseeker's Allowance or Jobseeker's Benefit
• Sign on for credited contributions

or

• Live in a hospital, convalescent home or similar institution

Monica (37) has been living with and caring for her brother who has lung cancer. She has been receiving Carer’s Benefit, as she left her job to care for him full-time. As a recipient of Carer’s Benefit, she will automatically receive the Carer’s Support Grant in June.

If you are caring for more than one person, a grant is paid for each of them.

How do I apply?

If you are getting Carer's Allowance, Carer's Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance, you do not need to apply for the Carer's Support Grant. It will be automatically paid to you in June.

If you are not getting one of the above payments, you can visit the Department’s website  to download and complete an application form CSG1.

OR

You can visit your local Social Welfare Office or Intreo Centre to complete and submit an application.

If you were not getting one of the above payments but got the Carer's Support Grant last year, you do not need to re-apply this year. The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection will send you a letter and a short 2-page questionnaire in April. You must return the completed questionnaire as it will be used to assess you for the Carer's Support Grant this year.

The information above is an overview of the Carers Support Grant

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is a non-means-tested monthly payment for a child aged under 16 with a severe disability from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. Non-means- tested means your income will not affect whether or not you qualify for the payment.

If you have a child under the age of 16 with cancer, you may be entitled to Domiciliary Care Allowance or Carers Allowance. A medical social worker at your child’s treating hospital may be able to provide more information about this. You may also be eligible for Domiciliary Care Allowance if you have a child aged under 16 with a severe disability, who requires ongoing care and attention, substantially over and above the care and attention usually required by a child of the same age.

What is the rate of payment?

The Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) rate is €309.50 per month.

If you are caring for more than one child who qualifies for DCA, you can claim a DCA payment for each child.

Payment is made on the third Tuesday of every month for the current month.

If your child is receiving Domiciliary Care Allowance, you may also be entitled to:

• A non-means-tested medical card  for your child
• Carer’s Benefit or Carer’s Allowance 
• Carer’s Support Grant 

Who can apply?

To qualify for Domiciliary Care Allowance, your child must have a severe disability that is likely to last for at least 1 year and:

• Be aged under 16 (at 16, the child can apply for a Disability Allowance) 
• Live at home with the person claiming the allowance for 5 or more days a week
• Meet the medical criteria
• Be ordinarily resident in the State

How do I apply?

To apply, visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and complete a Domiciliary Care Allowance form (DOM CARE 1).

You can also get an application form by texting “FORM DCA” followed by your name and address to 51909 (standard text rates apply). 

Return the application form, and relevant supporting documentation, to:

Domiciliary Care Allowance
Social Welfare Services Office
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
College Road
Sligo

OR

You can visit your local Social Welfare Office or Intreo Centre  to complete and submit an application.

The information above is an overview of Domiciliary Care Allowance

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is a non-means-tested monthly payment for a child aged under 16 with a severe disability from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. Non-means- tested means your income will not affect whether or not you qualify for the payment.

If you have a child under the age of 16 with cancer, you may be entitled to Domiciliary Care Allowance or Carer's Allowance. A medical social worker at your child’s treating hospital may be able to provide more information about this. You may also be eligible for Domiciliary Care Allowance if you have a child aged under 16 with a severe disability, who requires ongoing care and attention, substantially over and above the care and attention usually required by a child of the same age.

What is the rate of payment?

The Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) rate is €309.50 per month.

If you are caring for more than one child who qualifies for DCA, you can claim a DCA payment for each child.

Payment is made on the third Tuesday of every month for the current month.

If your child is receiving Domiciliary Care Allowance, you may also be entitled to:

• A non-means-tested medical card  for your child
• Carer’s Benefit or Carer’s Allowance 
• Carer’s Support Grant 

Who can apply?

To qualify for Domiciliary Care Allowance, your child must have a severe disability that is likely to last for at least 1 year and:

• Be aged under 16 (at 16, the child can apply for a Disability Allowance)
• Live at home with the person claiming the allowance for 5 or more days a week
• Meet the medical criteria
• Be ordinarily resident in the State

How do I apply?

To apply, visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and complete a Domiciliary Care Allowance form (DOM CARE 1).

You can also get an application form by texting “FORM DCA” followed by your name and address to 51909 (standard text rates apply). 

Return the application form, and relevant supporting documentation, to:

Domiciliary Care Allowance
Social Welfare Services Office
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
College Road
Sligo

OR

You can visit your local Social Welfare Office or Intreo Centre  to complete and submit an application.

The information above is an overview of Domiciliary Care Allowance

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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One-Parent Family Payment (OFP) is a payment for men and women under 66 who are bringing children up without the support of a partner. If you have cancer and are the main carer of at least one child under the age of 7, you may qualify for OFP if you meet certain conditions (see below).

Who can apply?

To qualify for One-Parent Family Payment, you must:

• Be under 66
• Be the parent, step-parent, adoptive parent or legal guardian of a child under the age of 7.
• Be the main carer of at least one child under the age of 7. The child must live with you. You cannot get One-Parent Family Payment if you have joint equal custody of a child or children
• Satisfy a means test. A means test looks at your income to see if it is below a certain level.
• Not be living with a spouse, civil partner or cohabitant
• Be living apart from your previous partner for at least three months before you apply for One-Parent Family Payment following separation, divorce or the dissolving of a civil partnership. You may be required to make efforts to seek maintenance payments from your former partner

What is the rate of payment?

One-Parent Family Payment Rates

How do I apply?

Download and complete Form OFP 1 which is available on the Department of Social Protection website. 

You should send your application form along with any relevant supporting documentation to your local Social Welfare of Intreo Office.  

OR

Visit your local Social Welfare or Intreo office to complete and submit an application Form OFP 1. 
 

The information above is an overview of the One-Parent Family Payment

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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Detailed information on claiming tax relief on additional healthcare expenses for a child is available from the Revenue website

You can claim tax relief for additional health expenses if the healthcare is for a child. Additional healthcare expenses are things such as overnight accommodation and travel that you may have to pay for when your child is ill. You can claim for a child under 18, or over 18 if they are in full-time education.

Additional healthcare expenses for children with cancer qualify for this relief.

Overnight accommodation

You can claim relief on the cost of overnight accommodation if you are the parents or guardians of the child. To qualify, your overnight stay must be necessary for your child’s treatment. The accommodation must be near the hospital where your child is being treated.

Travel

You may claim relief for the cost of transporting your child to and from hospital. You may also claim for transport to visit your child, if this is essential to the child’s treatment. You must have proof that these visits are necessary.

Other expenses

You can also claim tax relief on the following expenses related to your child’s healthcare:

• Telephone rental and call expenses
• Hygiene products and special clothing
• Travelling abroad for treatment – travel and accommodation expenses

How to claim

To claim these health expenses, you will need to complete your tax return form. It is important to keep receipts of your expenses in order to claim tax relief.  Detailed information is available from the Revenue  website.

Remember, any claim must be made within 4 years of the end of the tax year that you had the additional healthcare expenses you’re claiming for. You can ask your medical social worker or local Citizens Information Centre for more advice.

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Working Family Payment (WFP) (formerly known as Family Income Supplement) gives extra financial support to employees on low pay who have children. It is a weekly tax-free payment from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection.

What is the rate of payment?

The Working Family Payment you receive is 60% of the difference between your average weekly family income and the income limit that applies to your family.

If you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting, the combined financial income of both people is taken into account.

Who can apply?

If you have children and you or a family member has cancer and are receiving low pay, you may be eligible for WFP.

You must be an employee to qualify for WFP and you cannot qualify if you are self-employed.

You must be working 38 hours or more per fortnight. You can combine hours worked with your spouse or partner to meet this condition.

To qualify, your weekly income must be below a certain amount for your family size:

Marie and Donal have four children. Donal has been diagnosed with cancer and has had to cut back on work. Marie works part-time in a shop. Their income has fallen to €600 per week after tax, PRSI and USC. As their income is under the weekly income limit for a family with four children, they can apply for the Working Family Payment. They may qualify for 60% of the difference between their income of €600 and the income limit of €834, which would be a payment €140.40 per week.

How do I apply?

Fill out Form WFP1, which you can download from the Department of Social Protection website.

Send your completed application form along with relevant supporting documentation to:

WFP Renewal Section
Government Buildings
Ballinalee Road
Longford, N39 E4E0

OR

Visit your local Social Welfare or Intreo office to complete and submit an application

The information above is an overview of the Working Family Payment

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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A Housing Adaptation Grant is available from local authorities if you need to make changes and adaptations to your home to make it suitable for someone with a disability to live in.

For example, making it wheelchair-accessible, extending it to create more space, adding a ground-floor bathroom or toilet or a stair-lift. In some cases, provision for heating can be included, but only under certain conditions.

How do I qualify for a Housing Adaptation Grant?

Your application will be prioritised based on medical need. The more unwell you are, the higher the priority.

The grant is means tested. The grant is available to households whose gross annual household income does not exceed €60,000.

Your total household income will be assessed to find out if you qualify for the grant and the amount payable. You must also prove that you have paid the local property tax, if you are a homeowner.

The grant can be paid to people in:

• Owner-occupied housing
• Houses being purchased from a local authority under the Tenant Purchase Scheme
• Private rented accommodation
• Accommodation provided under the voluntary housing Capital Assistance and Rental Subsidy schemes
• Communal residences

Jim (70) is struggling with mobility following his cancer treatment and he cannot make it up the stairs of his home without assistance. He requires a stair-lift to access his upstairs bedroom and bathroom. Jim and his wife own their own home and both receive the state pension which puts their combined income well below the €60,000 limit. Jim should apply for the Housing Adaptation Grant from his local authority.

How do I apply?

Download an application form from your local authority's website or ask for one to be posted to you. The form includes detailed information on the scheme’s conditions and a checklist of documents that you must include.

Fill in the form and return it to your local authority, along with any documents you need to provide. When your local authority receives your application, it may ask for an occupational therapist to assess your home.

The grant will not be paid if you start work before the grant is approved. But it is expected that the work would start within 6 months of your grant being approved.

 The information above is an overview of the Housing Adaptation Grant

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Housing Aid for Older People Scheme is used to improve the condition of an older person's home. In general, it is aimed at people 66 years of age and older, who are living in poor housing conditions. However, if you are under 66 and are experiencing genuine hardship, the local authority may be able to help you.

What is the rate of payment?

The amount you can receive depends on your household income and the cost of the work needed to improve your home. If you have less income, the maximum grant is higher.

Who can apply?

You may be eligible for the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme if you:

• Have a household income below €60,000
• Are aged over 66 years, and require necessary repairs or improvements in your home.

Your application will be prioritised based on medical need. Highest priority is given to those who can continue to be cared for at home or can return home from hospital once the work is done.

How do I apply?

Download an application form from your local authority’s website or ask for one to be posted to you. The form contains detailed information on the scheme’s conditions and a checklist of documents that you must include.

The information above is an overview of the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Cross-Border Healthcare Directive is an EU law that gives you the right to apply for healthcare treatment in any EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Norway.

How do I qualify for the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive?

The Cross-Border Healthcare Directive only applies if you normally live in Ireland and are entitled to public patient healthcare here.

If you want to get treatment in the EU/EEA you must have a valid referral from your GP, consultant, or HSE clinician.

If you qualify you may have to pay for your treatment upfront. You can then apply for the HSE to pay you back. You will have to pay for your own travel costs. It’s a good idea to get travel insurance if you are travelling for treatment.

How do I apply?

Detailed information on the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive is available on the HSE website. 

National Contact Point
Cross-Border Healthcare Directive Department
St Canice's Hospital,
Dublin Road,
Kilkenny R95 P231

Tel: 056 778 4546

Email: crossborderdirective@hse.ie

The information above is an overview of the Cross Border Healthcare Directive

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

Visit the HSE website

Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm

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Disabled person’s parking permits or cards are available if you live in Ireland with certain disabilities, whether you are a driver or passenger, or if you are registered blind. These permits are also known as European parking cards or disabled parking badges.

You can use the parking card in any vehicle in which you are travelling. This means that if you are being driven at different times by different people, you can bring the parking card with you and display it in the appropriate vehicle.

The parking card is valid for 2 years from date of issue. Generally, the card is not issued to anyone under 5 years of age. The scheme applies to public car parking areas only.

How do I qualify for a Parking Card?

You will automatically qualify for a parking card if you hold a Primary Medical Certificate, but you still need to fill in an application form.

How to apply

A parking card costs €35. The scheme is administered by the Disabled Drivers Association and the Irish Wheelchair Association.

To request a parking card application form from the Disabled Drivers Association, you can email parkingcard@ddai.ie

Alternatively, you can apply online on the Irish Wheelchair Association website or email maats@iwa.ie

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You can get help with the cost of medicines under the Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS). This means that each household will pay no more than €80 each calendar month for approved prescribed drugs, medicines, rental costs for CPAP machines and oxygen.

If your medical needs cost more than €80 you won’t pay any more – the cost will be covered by the scheme. A household can be a single person, a married couple or a family with dependent children.

How do I qualify for the Drugs Payment Scheme?

The scheme is for people who do not have a medical card, including people who have a GP visit card.

The scheme is not means tested − it is for everyone who is ordinarily resident in Ireland, no matter what your income.

How do I apply?

You can apply online at http://www.mydps.ie

You can also apply by contacting your local health office or by filling in a registration form at your local pharmacy. If you have any difficulties filling in the form, the staff at the pharmacy or health office will be happy to help. Send the completed application to your local health office.

It can take up to 4 weeks to process your application for a Drugs Payment Scheme card. If you have to pay for prescription medicines or medical aids while you’re waiting for your card, keep the receipts. Once you get the card, you can send the receipts to the Drugs Payment Scheme section of your local health office. You should get back the money that you have spent.

The information above is an overview of the Drugs Payment Scheme

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit the HSE website
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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Emergency Medical Cards can be issued by the HSE if:

• A patient has a terminal illness and has been told they have 24 months or less to live
• A patient is receiving end-of-life treatment
• A patient needs urgent ongoing care and needs a temporary medical card

Emergency Medical Cards for patients with terminal illness

The HSE will issue a medical card for patients with a terminal illness who have  been told they have 24 months or less to live.

Your hospital consultant will send the HSE a completed application form (MC1t) stating that you have a terminal illness and have 24 months or less to live.

Your medical card number will be active on the system within 24 hours of your application being processed. This means that your GP, hospital staff and pharmacy can see your card active on their systems and you can access medical card services while you wait for your card.  You will receive your card in the post within 10 working days.

This medical card will never expire.

Emergency Medical Cards for patients who are receiving end-of-life treatment

The HSE will issue a medical card immediately if you have a terminal illness and are receiving end-of-life treatment. This means you have been told you have less than 12 months to live.

Your social worker, hospital consultant or GP will send the HSE a medical report and a completed application form (MC1e).

Your medical card number will be active on the system within 24 hours of your application being processed. This means that your GP, hospital staff and pharmacy can see your card active on their systems and you can access medical card services while you wait for your card.  You will receive your card in the post within 10 working days.

This medical card will never expire.

Emergency Medical Cards for patients who need urgent care

If you require urgent, ongoing care and need a medical card sooner than the normal processing time, the HSE may issue a temporary medical card for 6 months.

Your social worker, hospital consultant or GP will send the HSE a medical report and a completed application form (MC1e).

Your medical card number will be active on the system within 24 hours of your application being processed. This means that your GP, hospital staff and pharmacy can see your card active on their systems and you can access medical card services while you wait for your card.  You will receive your card in the post within 10 working days.

You will still need to apply for a standard means-tested medical card before your temporary card expires within 6 months. The HSE will write to you to remind you to do this.

The information above is an overview of the Emergency Medical Card.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

Visit the HSE online.

• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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This payment is for workers and self-employed people who cannot work in the short term because they have been medically certified to self-isolate due to exposure to COVID-19 or because they are ill due to COVID-19. 

Who can apply?

If you are suspected of having COVID-19 and have been advised to self-isolate by a doctor or the HSE or if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, you can apply for the enhanced Illness Benefit. 

To qualify for the payment, you must:

• Be aged between 18 and 66
• Have a medical certificate called a ‘Certificate of incapacity for work’ from a doctor or have a text or letter notification from the HSE to support your application
• Be employed or self-employed and have worked in the 4 weeks before the date of your medical certification
• Have a current contract of employment, if you are an employee. 

Sean (24) works in a garage and has been informed by the HSE that he has been exposed to COVID-19 through one of his co-workers, who has tested positive for the virus. Sean will need to self-isolate for 2 weeks. He can apply for the COVID-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit and should include evidence of the notification from the HSE with his application.

What is the rate of payment?

The COVID-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit is a payment of €350 per week. 

If you have a spouse or partner and/or children, you may receive an increase in your payment for these dependents. 

If you need to self-isolate because you have been exposed to COVID-19, the benefit is paid for a maximum of 2 weeks. 

If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, it is paid for a maximum of 10 weeks. If your medical certificate is for fewer than 10 weeks, you will be paid for the duration of your medical certificate. 

You should continue to talk to your doctor about your diagnosis and the length of time you are medically unfit for work because of COVID-19. 

How can I apply?

You can apply online at www.mywelfare.ie  

This is the quickest and easiest way to apply. You will need to provide information on the following:

• Yourself – details about you, your address and your relationship status
• Children – details of any children you may have, including their PPS numbers
• Payment method – details of your account in a financial institution, e.g. bank account
• Employment – details of your current employment

Your doctor will need to complete a medical certificate on your behalf. Your doctor can send the certificate directly to the Department of Social Protection or you can send it by email to illnessenquiry@welfare.ie or by post to:

Dept. of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
Illness Benefit – P.O. Box 1650
Dublin 1

If you have been identified during contact tracing as someone who has been in contact with a person with COVID-19, you will get a text or a letter from the HSE with an instruction to self-isolate. You can email an image of this letter or text along with your name and PPS number to illnessenquiry@welfare.ie

I am medically vulnerable and I am not able to work because I am cocooning. Do I qualify for the COVID-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit?

You will not receive the COVID-19 enhanced Illness Benefit if you are cocooning. However, you can apply for the normal Illness Benefit payment of up to €203 per week. 

The information above is an overview of COVID-19 Enhanced Illness Benefit

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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A General Practitioner (GP) Visit Card allows you to visit a family doctor free of charge. You will still have to pay for drugs, any outpatient/inpatient charges and medical aids yourself. You qualify in the same way as for a Medical Card except that the income guidelines are higher.

How do I qualify for a GP Visit Card?

To qualify for a GP Visit Card you must:

• Show that your income is below a certain level (called a ‘means test’)
• Be living in Ireland continuously (habitual resident)

OR

• Have financial hardship due to your circumstances.

People aged over 70 or under 6 automatically qualify for a GP visit card, no matter what their income.

If you are over 70, you can apply for a GP Visit Card by visiting the HSE’s website.

To register a child under 6 for a GP Visit Card, visit the HSE’s website.

If you get Carer’s Benefit or Carer’s Allowance, at full or half rate, you can also get a GP Visit Card.

GP Visit Cards for cancer patients

GP Visit Cards can be issued on hardship grounds, even if your income is above the income guidelines. For example, if you have exceptional and regular medical treatment or visits to your doctor or hospital due to your cancer. A card may be granted for your whole family or just for you.

Make sure you attach copies of all relevant evidence about your circumstances when you apply for the card. If there is a medical social worker at the hospital you are attending, you can ask them for advice on the application process.

You may also be entitled to the Drugs Payment Scheme card. Under the Drugs Payment Scheme, you and your family will pay a maximum of €114 each calendar month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines.

How do I apply?

The quickest way to apply for a GP Visit Card is online at www.mymedicalcard.ie.

You can also download an MC1 application form on the HSE website or collect one from your local health office. 

Post the completed form to:

HSE - PCRS
Client Registration Unit
PO Box 11745
Finglas, Dublin D11 XKF3.

For any queries, call LoCall 1890 252 919 or email clientregistration@hse.ie.

The information above is an overview of the GP Visit Card

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit the HSE website
• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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A Housing Adaptation Grant is available from local authorities if you need to make changes and adaptations to your home to make it suitable for someone with a disability to live in.

For example, making it wheelchair-accessible, extending it to create more space, adding a ground-floor bathroom or toilet or a stair-lift. In some cases, provision for heating can be included, but only under certain conditions.

How do I qualify for a Housing Adaptation Grant?

Your application will be prioritised based on medical need. The more unwell you are, the higher the priority.

The grant is means tested. The grant is available to households whose gross annual household income does not exceed €60,000.

Your total household income will be assessed to find out if you qualify for the grant and the amount payable. You must also prove that you have paid the local property tax, if you are a homeowner.

The grant can be paid to people in:

• Owner-occupied housing
• Houses being purchased from a local authority under the Tenant Purchase Scheme
• Private rented accommodation
• Accommodation provided under the voluntary housing Capital Assistance and Rental Subsidy schemes
• Communal residences

Jim (70) is struggling with mobility following his cancer treatment and he cannot make it up the stairs of his home without assistance. He requires a stair-lift to access his upstairs bedroom and bathroom. Jim and his wife own their own home and both receive the state pension which puts their combined income well below the €60,000 limit. Jim should apply for the Housing Adaptation Grant from his local authority.

How do I apply?

Download an application form from your local authority's website or ask for one to be posted to you. The form includes detailed information on the scheme’s conditions and a checklist of documents that you must include.

Fill in the form and return it to your local authority, along with any documents you need to provide. When your local authority receives your application, it may ask for an occupational therapist to assess your home.

The grant will not be paid if you start work before the grant is approved. But it is expected that the work would start within 6 months of your grant being approved.

 The information above is an overview of the Housing Adaptation Grant

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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Illness Benefit is a payment for PAYE workers who cannot work due to illness. It is aimed at those with a short-term illness. The benefit is paid for a maximum of two years, and how long you get Illness Benefit depends on how much PRSI you have paid.

Cancer patients who can no longer work due to their diagnosis and/or treatment should apply for Illness Benefit. It is important to apply within 6 weeks of leaving work because of illness.

Who can apply?

To qualify for Illness Benefit you must:

• Be aged under 66
• Be certified by a doctor as being medically unfit for work
• Have at least 104 weeks’ PRSI contributions since you first started work

AND ONE OF THE FOLLOWING:

• Have 39 weeks’ PRSI contributions paid or credited in the relevant tax year

(13 of these must be paid contributions).

• Have 26 weeks’ PRSI contributions paid in the tax year immediately before the year in which the claim is being made and 26 weeks’ PRSI contributions paid in the relevant tax year.

The relevant tax year is the second-last complete tax year before the year in which your claim for Illness Benefit begins. For example:

Relevant tax year

Rob (33) is a gym instructor and has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He will need to take some time off work to attend treatment. Although he has been working for several years for the same company, they do not offer any paid sick leave. However, he has enough PRSI contributions to apply for Illness Benefit for the duration of his illness.  He will need to complete the Illness Benefit IB1 application form and request a ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’ from his doctor. 

What is the rate of payment?

Weekly payment 

Usually no payment is made for the first 3 days of illness.

You can get an increase in your payment for an adult dependent or child dependent if you meet certain conditions.

How can I apply?

You must apply for Illness Benefit within 6 weeks of leaving work because of illness and you must be medically unfit for work.

You must claim Illness Benefit from the first day you could not work because of illness.

Illness Benefit is not linked to your employer’s policy on pay for sick leave. Whether your employer pays you or not while you are out sick from work you should claim Illness Benefit from the first day of your illness. If you get sick pay from work, you should ask your employer what administrative arrangements are in place while you are claiming Illness Benefit.

To claim Illness Benefit you will need to get a claim form (IB1) and a ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’ from your doctor. You will fill out the IB1 form and ask your doctor to complete the ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’.

Some doctors can submit the ‘Certificate of Incapacity for Work’ online or you can send it with your IB1 Form to:

Illness Benefit
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
P.O. Box 1650
Dublin 1

Tel: (01) 704 3300

Locall: 1890 928 400

Email: illnessbenefit@welfare.ie

Website: www.welfare.ie

The information above is an overview of Illness Benefit

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Invalidity Pension is a long-term weekly payment for those who are unable to work for 12 months or who cannot work permanently due to illness or disability and who have paid the required number of PRSI contributions.

It is usually given to people who have already claimed Illness Benefit or Disability Allowance for at least 12 months. You will also be entitled to a free travel pass, and you may get extra social welfare benefits like the Household Benefits Package.

Who can apply?

To qualify for an Invalidity Pension payment, you must:

Be medically unfit for work for at least 12 months and be likely to be incapable of work for at least another 12 months.

OR

Be permanently incapable of work due to illness or disability.

AND

Have at least 260 weeks’ (5 years’) PRSI contributions since you first started work.

AND

Have 48 weeks’ paid or credited PRSI contributions in the tax year immediately before, or 2 years before, the year in which the claim is being made.

Peter (48) was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2019. He has been unable to work and has received Illness Benefit for 12 months. His treatment has led to reduced mobility and he is not able to return to work as a delivery driver.  He had been working full-time since he was 18 and has more than 260 weeks’ PRSI contributions. He had also been working up to his diagnosis in 2019, and paid 48 weeks’ PRSI contributions in 2018.  He should apply for the Invalidity Pension.

What is the rate of payment?

Invalidity Pension rates 

How do I apply?

Visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and fill in an Invalidity Pension (INV 1) application form.

You can also get a form at your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.

You may claim for Supplementary Welfare Allowance while you are waiting for your claim to be processed.

If you have been getting Illness Benefit for a period of 468 days, you will be medically assessed to see if you are still entitled to Illness Benefit and if you might qualify for the Invalidity Pension. If you might qualify for the Invalidity Pension, a form (INV2) will be sent to you. When they get the completed form, a Deciding Officer will examine the claim and determine whether you qualify for Invalidity Pension.

Send your application form to:

Invalidity Pension Section

Social Welfare Services Office
Government Buildings
Ballinalee Road
Longford

Tel: (043) 334 0000 (If calling from outside Ireland please call +353 43 334 0000)

Locall: 1890 92 77 70 (Note: the rates charged for using 1890 (Lo-call) numbers may vary)

The information above is an overview of the Invalidity Pension

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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If you have certain long-term conditions, including acute leukaemia, you can get free drugs, medicines and medical and surgical equipment for your treatment.

The scheme does not depend on your income or other circumstances and is separate from the Medical Card and GP Visit Card schemes.

If you qualify, you will get a long-term illness book that lists the drugs and medicines you need. You will receive these medicines free of charge through your local chemist. You will still have to pay for other drugs and medicines not related to your conditions.

Who can apply?

Patients who have acute leukaemia will qualify for the Long-Term Illness Scheme. Other types of cancer are not covered.

How do I apply?

You can download an application form from the HSE website. The form is also available at your local Health Office or from your GP.

More information is available by calling 1890 252 919.

You can send your completed application form to:

Long-Term Illness Scheme
Client Registration Unit
P.O. Box 12962
Dublin 11
D11 XKF3

The information above is an overview of the Long-Term Illness Scheme.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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People who have HSE Medical Cards get free medical care. Medical Cards are means tested. Means tested means that you will qualify for the payment if your income is below a certain level.

A Medical Card is different from a GP Visit Card. A GP Visit Card entitles you to free GP visits only.

A Medical Card entitles you to:

• Free GP (family doctor) services.
• Free prescribed drugs and medicines. You may have to pay a prescription charge of €1.50 per item (€1 for those over 70 years), up to a limit of €15 per family per month.
• Free medical aids (appliances), for example, a walking aid, wheelchair, colostomy bags or wig/hairpiece (up to a certain value).
• Free inpatient services in a public ward in a public hospital.
• Dental, optical (eye) and aural (hearing) services.
• Free outpatient services.
• Free accident and emergency care.
• Community care services: public health nursing, home help, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, chiropody, day and respite care.
• Free maternity and infant care services.
• Short-term counselling for mild to moderate difficulties.

You may also be entitled to other benefits such as free primary school transport, exemption from Junior Cert. and Leaving Cert. examination fees and financial help with buying school books.

Your local social welfare office or a hospital-based social worker can give you more information about how to claim these benefits.

How do I qualify for a Medical Card?

• Pass a means test. This means you will have to give details of how much money you and your partner make, any savings and investments you have, and if you own property that is not your own home, to make sure you are eligible for the card.

OR

• Satisfy EU regulations about EU members receiving medical cards in Ireland
• Be a child in foster care
• Be a child under 18 who has been diagnosed with cancer within the last 5 years
• Be affected by the drug Thalidomide
• Be a woman who has had a symphysiotomy or who was resident in certain institutions
• Live in direct provision accommodation

Medical Cards are no longer automatically given to those aged over 70. You will need to pass a means test to show your income is below the limit to qualify for a card. If you are over 70, you are entitled to the GP Visit Card. 

If you apply for a medical card and do not qualify, you will be automatically assessed for a GP Visit Card.  

Paula (47) has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. While her income is above the means test limit, she has increased medical costs, including consultant fees and inpatient charges related to her treatment. She also has increased transportation costs, hospital car parking fees and increased heating costs for her home. Paula should apply for a Medical Card and include evidence of her income, as well as the increased costs she faces due to her diagnosis. 

Medical Cards for cancer patients

A cancer diagnosis does not automatically entitle you to a Medical Card unless you are under the age of 18 and have been diagnosed with cancer within the last 5 years.

Emergency Medical Cards can be issued by the HSE as a matter of urgency if a patient has a terminal illness and is receiving end-of-life treatment or a patient needs urgent ongoing care and needs a temporary medical card.

Discretionary Medical Cards can sometimes be issued on hardship grounds, even if your income is above the income guidelines. If you have a specific hardship, an emergency, personal difficulty, or special circumstances due to your cancer, do apply for a Medical Card. Make sure to attach copies of all requested documents, such as copies of your wage slips, social welfare payment receipts and evidence of medical costs.

Some medical aids are free if you have a medical card. Medical aids are things you may need as the result of cancer or cancer treatment to improve your quality of life. For example, wigs/hairpieces after chemotherapy or colostomy bags after bowel cancer surgery. You may also hear them called ‘appliances’. If your mobility becomes a problem, you may need a walking aid or wheelchair for a time. On discharge home from hospital, your healthcare team will advise you about any medical aids you may need after treatment. They will arrange a visit with your local Public Health Nurse who will organise these necessary medical aids. You might be referred to an occupational therapist, who can see what might be most helpful for you.

How do I apply?

The quickest way to apply for a Medical Card is online at www.medicalcard.ie.

You can also download an MC1 application form from the HSE website or collect one from your local health office. 

Post the completed form to:

HSE - PCRS
Client Registration Unit
PO Box 11745
Finglas, Dublin D11 XKF3.

For any queries, call LoCall 1890 252 919 or email clientregistration@hse.ie.

The information above is an overview of the Medical Card.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit the HSE online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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If you pay medical expenses that are not covered by the State or by private health insurance, you can claim tax relief on some of those expenses. These can be your own health expenses, those of a family member or any individual’s, as long as you paid for them.

You cannot claim tax relief on the following:

• Any medical expenses that have been, or will be, paid for by the HSE or a private health insurance company.
• Any medical expenses that have been, or will be, the subject of a compensation payment.
• Any expenses relating to routine dental and eye care.

How to claim

To claim these health expenses, you will need to complete your tax return form.

Remember, any claim must be made within 4 years of the end of the tax year in which you had the medical expenses you’re claiming for.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit the Revenue website
• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Living Alone Increase is an extra payment for people on certain social welfare payments who are living alone.

What is the rate of payment?

The rate of payment is a weekly increase of €14.

If you qualify for the Living Alone Increase, you may also qualify for Telephone Support Allowance. 

Who can apply?

If you are 66 years or over you may qualify if you live alone and are getting one of the following payments:

• State Pension (contributory)
• State Pension (non-contributory)
• Widow’s/Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Contributory) Pension
• Widow's/Widower's Pension under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme
• Incapacity Supplement under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme
• Deserted Wife's Benefit

If you are under 66 years, you may qualify if you live alone and are getting:

• Disability Allowance
• Invalidity Pension
• Incapacity Supplement
• Blind Pension

How do I apply?

Visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and complete form LA1.
Send the completed form to the section of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection that pays your main pension or benefit.

Or

Visit your local Social Welfare office or Intreo Centre to complete the LA1 application form.

The information above is an overview of the Living Alone increase.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm

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Telephone Support Allowance is a weekly payment for people who live alone and already receive certain other social welfare payments. It helps with the cost of communications and/or home security solutions.

It is paid at a single rate of €2.50 a week.

If you have cancer and are receiving certain social welfare payments, you may qualify for Telephone Support Allowance.

What is the rate of payment?

The Telephone Support Allowance is a weekly payment of €2.50.

Who can apply?

The allowance is paid automatically to people who receive one of the qualifying payments listed below and who also receive both the Living Alone Allowance and Fuel Allowance. 

• State Pension (contributory and non-contributory) 
• Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Contributory) Pension
• Invalidity Pension
• Disability Allowance
• Blind Pension
• Incapacity Supplement
• Deserted Wife's Benefit

How do I apply?

As the Telephone Support Allowance is paid automatically to people who qualify, you do not need to apply for it. There is no application form.

If you think that you may qualify but haven’t received an automatic payment, you should contact the section in the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection that pays your main social welfare payment.

The information above is an overview of the Telephone Support Allowance.

For detailed information, you are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online.
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Non-contributory) Pension is a means-tested payment for those who do not qualify for the Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Contributory) Pension.
 

If your spouse or civil partner has died from cancer and you do not have dependent children, you may be eligible for this payment if you can show that your income is below a certain level (means test).

People with dependent children can apply for the One-Parent Family Payment. 

What is the rate of payment?

Who can apply?

To qualify for a Widows, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Non-contributory) Pension, you must:

• Be a widow, widower or surviving civil partner
• Not be living together with another person (cohabiting)
• Pass a means test
• Be habitually resident in the State  ̶  this means that you have lived in Ireland for some time and intend to stay in Ireland for the foreseeable future.

How do I apply?

Visit your local Social Welfare or Intreo office to complete form WP1

Or

Visit the Department of Social Protection Website to download and complete form WP1.

Send your application form along with any relevant supporting documentation to:

Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Non-Contributory) Pension Section
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
College Road
Sligo, F91 T384

The information above is an overview of this pension.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm

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Everyone aged 66 and over, legally resident and living permanently in the State, is entitled to the Free Travel Scheme.

If you have cancer and are receiving certain social welfare payments or if you care for someone with cancer and are in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, you may qualify for the Free Travel Scheme.

If you qualify for free travel, you are issued with a card that you must carry with you when using public transport.

Can my spouse or partner accompany me for free?

If you qualify for the Free Travel Scheme and you are married, in a civil partnership or living together with another person (cohabiting), you are entitled to a Free Travel Card, which allows your partner to accompany you free of charge when travelling (this does not apply to people under 66 who are getting Carer’s Allowance).

If you are unable to travel alone, you may get a Free Travel Companion Card. This allows you to be accompanied by any person over 16 years of age, free of charge. To qualify for a Free Travel Companion Card, you must satisfy certain conditions.

Who can apply?

You may be entitled to free travel if you are legally and permanently living in the State and:

• You are aged 66 or over

OR

• You receive one of the following payments:
  • Disability Allowance
  • Blind Pension
  • Carer's Allowance
  • Invalidity Pension 

How do I apply?

You must register for a Public Services Card (PSC) in order to obtain a Free Travel Pass. This includes a process known as ‘SAFE registration’ to establish and verify your identity.

If you don’t yet have a Public Services Card, you can make an appointment to get one either by visiting www.MyWelfare.ie or by calling into your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Office.

If you are entitled to free travel, your new Public Services Card will also be your Free Travel Card.

The information above is an overview of the Free Travel Scheme

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Household Benefits Package (HBP) helps with the cost of your TV licence and your electricity or gas bill. Only one person in a household can get the Package.

You can get the Household Benefits Package if you are aged 70 or over. You do not need to be getting a State pension and the package is not affected by your income (not means tested). In certain circumstances, people under 70 can get the HBP.

Carers may also qualify for the HBP if they receive Carer’s Allowance and live with the person they are caring for.

What is the rate of payment?

Household Benefits Package rates in 2020

Who can apply?

To get the Household Benefits Package, you must:

• Be legally and permanently living in the State (full-time, all year round)
• Be the only person in your household getting the HBP.
• Have the electricity or gas bill in your name (if you are applying for an Electricity or Gas Allowance).
• Be aged 70 or over. If you are under 70, you must also meet certain additional rules.
• Be a carer. If you receive Carer’s Allowance, you can get the HBP, but you must be living with the person you are caring for.

How do I apply?

Visit your local Social Welfare office or Intreo Centre to complete form HB1

Or

Visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and complete form HB1

Return your completed application form to the Household Benefits Package section:

Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
Household Benefits Package Section
Social Welfare Services
College Road
Sligo
Ireland

The information above is an overview of the Household Benefits Package.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Housing Aid for Older People Scheme is used to improve the condition of an older person's home. In general, it is aimed at people 66 years of age and older, who are living in poor housing conditions. However, if you are under 66 and are experiencing genuine hardship, the local authority may be able to help you.

What is the rate of payment?

The amount you can receive depends on your household income and the cost of the work needed to improve your home. If you have less income, the maximum grant is higher.

Who can apply?

You may be eligible for the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme if you:

• Have a household income below €60,000
• Are aged over 66 years, and require necessary repairs or improvements in your home.

Your application will be prioritised based on medical need. Highest priority is given to those who can continue to be cared for at home or can return home from hospital once the work is done.

How do I apply?

Download an application form from your local authority’s website or ask for one to be posted to you. The form contains detailed information on the scheme’s conditions and a checklist of documents that you must include.

The information above is an overview of the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The Living Alone Increase is an extra payment for people on certain social welfare payments who are living alone.

What is the rate of payment?

The rate of payment is a weekly increase of €14.

If you qualify for the Living Alone Increase, you may also qualify for Telephone Support Allowance.

Who can apply?

If you are 66 years or over you may qualify if you live alone and are getting one of the following payments:

• State Pension (Contributory)  
• State Pension (Non-contributory)
• Widow’s/Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Contributory) Pension
• Widow's/Widower's Pension under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme
• Incapacity Supplement under the Occupational Injuries Benefit Scheme
• Deserted Wife's Benefit

If you are under 66 years, you may qualify if you live alone and are getting:

• Disability Allowance
• Invalidity Pension
• Incapacity Supplement
• Blind Pension

How do I apply?

Visit your local Social Welfare office or Intreo Centre  to complete the LA1 application form.

Or

Visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and complete form LA1.

Send the completed form to the section of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection that pays your main pension or benefit.

The information above is an overview of the Living Alone increase.

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm

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The State Pension (Contributory) is paid to people from the age of 66 who have enough (PRSI) contributions. It is sometimes called the old-age pension.

The State Pension (Contributory) is not means tested. You can have other income and still get it.

How do I qualify?

As the PRSI conditions are very complex, you should apply for a State Pension (Contributory) if you have ever worked in Ireland and have paid PRSI contributions (stamps) at any time.

To qualify for a State Pension (Contributory) you must be aged 66 or over and have enough Class A, E, F, G, H, N or S social insurance contributions (PRSI). These are also called full-rate PRSI contributions.

You need to:

1. Have paid PRSI contributions before a certain age and
2. Have a certain number of paid PRSI contributions and
3. Have a certain yearly average number of PRSI contributions since you first started to pay PRSI (this is the average rule) OR have a certain total number of PRSI contributions (this is the Total Contributions Approach).

Detailed information on how to qualify is available at Citizens Information .

How do I apply?

You should apply 3 months before you reach the age of 66. If you have paid social insurance contributions in more than one country, you should apply 6 months before you reach the age of 66.

You can visit your local Post Office, Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Office  to pick up the SPC1 form.

Or

You can visit the Department of Social Protection website to download and complete the SPC1 application form.

You should send your completed application form and supporting documentation to:

State Pension (Contributory) Section,
Social Welfare Services,
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection,
College Road,
Sligo F91 T384

The information above is an overview of the State Pension (Contributory)

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

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The State Pension (Non-Contributory) is a means-tested payment for people aged over 66 who do not qualify for a State Pension (Contributory) or who only qualify for a reduced contributory pension.

What is the rate of payment?

Your rate of payment will depend on your income (means tested). The below shows the maximum personal weekly rate of payment a person can receive if they have no income from any source. If you have a higher income, the payment amount will be lower.

How do I qualify?

You may qualify for the State Pension (Non-Contributory) if:

• You are aged 66 or over
• You can show that your income is below a certain level (means test)
• You meet the habitual residence condition

How do I apply?

You should apply 3 months before you reach the age of 66.

Visit your local Post Office, Citizens Information Centre , Social Welfare Office or Intreo Centre to get the SPNC1 application form.

Or

Visit the Department of Social Protection website to download the SPNC1 application form.

Send your completed application form with supporting documents to:

State Pension (Non-Contributory) Section
Social Welfare Services
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
College Road
Sligo F91 T384

The information above is an overview of the State Pension (Non-Contributory)

For detailed information, applicants are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

Print this article (PDF)

Telephone Support Allowance is a weekly payment for people who live alone and already receive certain other social welfare payments. It helps with the cost of communications and/or home security solutions.

It is paid at a single rate of €2.50 a week.

If you have cancer and are receiving certain social welfare payments, you may qualify for Telephone Support Allowance.

What is the rate of payment?

The Telephone Support Allowance is a weekly payment of €2.50.

Who can apply?

The allowance is paid automatically to people who receive one of the qualifying payments listed below and who also receive both the Living Alone Allowance  and Fuel Allowance .

• State Pensions (Contributory and Non-contributory) 
• Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Contributory) Pension
• Invalidity Pension  
• Disability Allowance
• Blind Pension
• Incapacity Supplement
• Deserted Wife's Benefit  

How do I apply?

As the Telephone Support Allowance is paid automatically to people who qualify, you do not need to apply for it. There is no application form.

If you think that you may qualify but haven’t received an automatic payment, you should contact the section in the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection that pays your main social welfare payment.

The information above is an overview of the Telephone Support Allowance.

For detailed information, you are advised to:

• Visit Citizens Information online.
• Call Citizens Information on 0761 07 4000 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm
• Visit your local Citizens Information office
• Call our Cancer Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 – Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm
• Contact your Medical Social Worker

Print this article (PDF)

Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Non-contributory) Pension is a means-tested payment for those who do not qualify for the Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s (Contributory) Pension.

If your spouse or civil partner has died from cancer and you do not have dependent children, you may be eligible for this payment if you can show that your income is below a certain level (means test).

People with dependent children can apply for the One-Parent Family Payment. 

What is the rate of payment?