Many people in Ireland are unaware that they qualify for certain social welfare entitlements, leaving millions of euros unclaimed every year. Whether you’re working, retired, or on a low income, you may be missing out on financial supports that could make a real difference. Here are five hidden benefits and the percentage of people estimated to be unaware they qualify. Are You Missing Out on Hidden Social Welfare Entitlements?
1️⃣ Working Family Payment (WFP) – 40%+ missing out
The Working Family Payment (WFP) is a tax-free weekly payment for low-income families in employment. Many assume they earn too much to qualify, but the thresholds are more generous than people realise.
✅ Who qualifies?
- Working 38+ hours per fortnight (can be combined between two parents).
- Have at least one dependent child under 18 (or 22 if in full-time education).
- Earnings below set thresholds (e.g., €882 per week for a family with 3 children).
💰 How much?
- 60% of the difference between your income and the income limit for your family size.
Why are people missing out? Many working parents assume they don’t qualify because they have a job, but this payment is designed for working families on lower incomes.
👉 How to apply? Online at MyWelfare.ie or by post.
2️⃣ Additional Needs Payment (ANP) – 50%+ missing out
The Additional Needs Payment is a once-off support for unexpected essential expenses. Many people wrongly believe this is only for those on Jobseeker’s Allowance. In reality, anyone struggling financially can apply—even those who work.
✅ Who qualifies?
- If you face an unexpected financial burden you cannot afford.
- If your household income is low (case-by-case basis).
💰 What can it cover?
- Rent arrears
- Medical costs
- Utility bills
- Essential home appliances (e.g., fridge, washing machine)
Why are people missing out? Many don’t realise that even working people and pensioners can apply if they’re facing financial hardship.
👉 How to apply? Through Community Welfare Officers (CWO) or at MyWelfare.ie.
3️⃣ Carer’s Support Grant (€1,850 per year) – 30-40% missing out
The Carer’s Support Grant is a once-a-year tax-free payment for anyone providing full-time care. You don’t have to be on Carer’s Allowance or Carer’s Benefit to receive it!
✅ Who qualifies?
- If you provide full-time care to someone needing assistance due to age, disability, or illness.
- You can work or study up to 18.5 hours per week while providing care.
💰 How much?
- €1,850 tax-free every June (paid automatically if on Carer’s Allowance).
Why are people missing out? Many family carers don’t realise they can claim this even if they don’t receive other carer payments.
👉 How to apply? Online at MyWelfare.ie or by post.
4️⃣ Fuel Allowance – 35%+ missing out
With the rising cost of living, Fuel Allowance is a major help for households struggling with heating costs. Many assume they don’t qualify, but rules have recently changed to expand eligibility.
✅ Who qualifies?
- People on social welfare payments (but also some low-income workers and pensioners!).
- Must live alone or with qualifying dependents.
- Income limit: €500 per week for a single person, €1,000 for a couple (higher for over-70s).
💰 How much?
- €924 per year (paid weekly or in lump sums).
Why are people missing out? Many pensioners, part-time workers, and those on reduced-rate pensions mistakenly believe they are ineligible.
👉 How to apply? Through MyWelfare.ie or by post.
5️⃣ Rent Supplement – 45%+ missing out
Rent Supplement is available for people struggling to afford private rent, but thousands of renters don’t realise they can apply.
✅ Who qualifies?
- Low-income earners or those on social welfare who cannot afford their rent.
- Working people may qualify if their income is below certain thresholds.
- Not receiving Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).
💰 How much?
- Varies depending on location and income but can significantly reduce rent costs.
Why are people missing out? Many assume it’s only for unemployed people, but part-time and low-income workers can also qualify.
👉 How to apply? Through your local Intreo office.
Are You Missing Out? Check Today!
Thousands of people in Ireland are missing out on vital financial supports simply because they don’t know they qualify. Even if you’re working, you may still be entitled to payments that could make a real difference.
✅ How to check eligibility?
- Visit MyWelfare.ie to see available benefits.
- Contact Citizens Information for advice.
- Apply—even if unsure! Many applications are case-by-case.
👉 Don’t leave money on the table—check today!
Are You Missing Out on Hidden Social Welfare Entitlements?
