Ireland 2026 — Social Welfare Rates & Guides

Don’t miss what
you’re entitled to.

Every Irish benefit explained in plain language — 2026 rates, eligibility rules, and how to apply. No jargon, no confusion.

Browse all benefits
67+
Benefits & entitlements covered
€299
Max weekly payment 2026
2026
Rates fully updated
Free
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€140/mo Child Benefit €299/wk Maternity Benefit Free PPS Number €274/wk Jobseeker’s €38/wk Fuel Allowance Free Medical Card €284/wk Carer’s Allowance €299/wk State Pension

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🏣
10 guides
PPS Number
What it is, how to get one, and which documents you need.
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👶
9 guides
Child Benefit
€140 / month
Universal payment for every child. Who qualifies, how to apply.
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🤲
8 guides
Maternity Benefit
€299 / week — 26 weeks
Eligibility for PAYE workers and the self-employed.
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💼
9 guides
Jobseeker
€274 / week
Allowance and Benefit — rates, eligibility and how to claim.
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🏥
7 guides
Illness Benefit
€242 / week
If you can’t work due to illness or injury. PRSI-based payment.
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🤝
8 guides
Carer’s Allowance
Up to €284 / week
For full-time carers. Means test, earnings disregard, eligibility.
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🔥
5 guides
Fuel Allowance
€38 / week — 28 weeks
Winter energy support. Who gets it and how to apply.
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🇮🇪
9 guides
Social Welfare
All 2026 rates, PRSI rules, means testing and eligibility explained.
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🌎
8 guides
Benefits for Immigrants
What non-EU citizens can claim. HRC, stamps, eligibility explained.
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🏠
Revenue
Rent Tax Credit
€1,000 / year
For private renters. No means test — most renters are entitled.
Read guide →
💊
HSE
Drug Payment Scheme
€80 / month cap
Limits your monthly prescription costs. No income test to register.
Read guide →
📸
Emergency
Additional Needs Payment
Emergency help for deposits, furniture, heating and more. Apply at Intreo.
Read guide →
👔
Age 65
Benefit Payment for 65s
€232 / week
Bridge payment between leaving work at 65 and State Pension at 66.
Read guide →
🏗
Revenue
Help to Buy
Up to €30,000
Tax refund for first-time buyers of new homes. Extended to 2029.
Read guide →
Browse all 67 benefits & schemes →

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2
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Each guide explains exactly who qualifies in plain language. No legal jargon.

3
Apply with confidence

Step-by-step instructions for every application, with current 2026 rates and deadlines.

About IrishBenefits.ie

We provide clear, up-to-date information about Irish social welfare payments, benefits and entitlements. Our guides explain eligibility rules, current rates and how to apply — without bureaucratic language.

All information is updated for 2026. We are not affiliated with any government body. Always verify rates and eligibility rules at gov.ie before making decisions.