Family Benefits Ireland 2026

Ireland provides a comprehensive range of family supports including: Child Benefit (€140/month per child), Maternity Benefit (€274/week for 26 weeks), Paternity Benefit (2 weeks), Parents' Leave and Benefit (9 weeks each parent), One-Parent Family Payment, Child Support Payment, National Childcare Scheme, Free Preschool (ECCE), Back to School Clothing Allowance, School Book Scheme, and various tax credits for families.

Child Benefit in Ireland is €140 per month per child. It is paid for each child under 16, and for children under 18 who are in full-time education, on a FAS or Youthreach course, or have a disability. Child Benefit is not means-tested — every family with qualifying children in Ireland is entitled to it regardless of income.

Pregnant employees in Ireland are entitled to 26 weeks maternity leave, of which at least 2 weeks must be taken before the birth. You can also take 16 weeks additional unpaid maternity leave. During the 26 weeks, if you have enough PRSI contributions, you receive Maternity Benefit of €274 per week from the Department of Social Protection. Your employer may also top this up — check your contract.

The main childcare supports are: National Childcare Scheme (NCS) — subsidised childcare for children under 15 based on family income; ECCE Free Preschool — free preschool for children aged 2 years and 8 months to 5 years and 6 months; and the Childcare Support Account, available to families receiving childcare subsidies. Tax credits may also be available for employing a carer.

Yes. The main school supports are: School Book Scheme (free school books for primary and secondary school); School Transport Scheme (subsidised or free bus transport for qualifying students); Home Tuition Grant (for children who cannot attend school due to illness or disability); Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (means-tested grant for families on social welfare); and the ECCE scheme which provides free preschool.