The Carer’s Support Grant, amounting to €1,850 per person, will be paid on 6 June 2024. This annual payment, provided by the Department of Social Protection (DSP), offers essential financial support to carers. Carer’s Support Grant: How Much Is It and Who Qualifies?
What is the Carer’s Support Grant?
The Carer’s Support Grant, formerly known as the Respite Care Grant, is a once-a-year payment aimed at supporting carers. It is intended to offer financial relief and can be used at the carer’s discretion, including but not limited to, paying for respite care.
In June each year, typically on the first Thursday of the month, the DSP automatically pays the grant to carers receiving:
- Carer’s Allowance
- Carer’s Benefit
- Domiciliary Care Allowance
Only one Carer’s Support Grant can be paid for each person being cared for.
Can I Get the Carer’s Support Grant?
The Carer’s Support Grant is automatically paid to those receiving:
- Carer’s Allowance (both full rate and half-rate)
- Carer’s Benefit
- Domiciliary Care Allowance
For those not receiving the above payments:
You can still qualify for the Carer’s Support Grant if you meet the following criteria:
- Aged 16 or over
- Ordinarily resident in Ireland
- Caring for someone on a full-time basis for at least 6 months, including the first Thursday in June
- Living with the person being cared for, or meeting specific criteria if living separately (e.g., the person must be able to contact you quickly and directly)
Restrictions during the 6-month caring period:
- You cannot work more than 18.5 hours per week (as an employee or self-employed)
- You cannot participate in an education or training course for more than 18.5 hours a week
- You cannot receive Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit
- You cannot sign on for credited contributions
- You cannot live in a hospital, convalescent home, or similar institution
No means test is required to qualify for the Carer’s Support Grant.
Caring for more than one person:
If you care for multiple people, you can receive a grant for each individual.
Caring for a baby in a hospital:
If your baby is hospitalized for medical treatment after birth and has a disability qualifying them for Domiciliary Care Allowance, you may also qualify for the Carer’s Support Grant.
How Much is the Carer’s Support Grant?
For 2024, the Carer’s Support Grant is €1,850 per person being cared for. This payment will be made on 6 June 2024 and is not subject to tax.
How to Apply
If you already receive Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance, the Carer’s Support Grant will be paid automatically in June.
If you do not receive these payments, you must complete a Carer’s Support Grant application form for each person you care for. Application forms are available at:
- Intreo Centres
- Social Welfare Branch Offices
- Citizens Information Centres
When to Apply
The grant is paid annually in June. If you need to apply, ensure your application is submitted well in advance to meet the necessary criteria by the first Thursday in June.
More Information
For further details, including accessing the application form and additional eligibility criteria, visit your local Intreo Centre or Citizens Information Centre. You can also find comprehensive information on the DSP website.
Carer’s Support Grant: How Much Is It and Who Qualifies?