In 2025, a major update to the Carer’s Support Grant brings exciting news for many caregivers in Ireland. Thanks to Budget 2025, the Carer’s Support Grant has been increased to €2,000 and now more people are eligible to claim this vital support. If you’re a full-time carer or know someone who is, this annual payment could make a big difference. Here’s everything you need to know about the grant, including how to apply and who qualifies.
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What is the Carer’s Support Grant?
The Carer’s Support Grant is an annual payment provided by the Department of Social Protection (DSP) to individuals who are caring for a person on a full-time basis. Previously known as the Respite Care Grant, it is paid to help support carers in their vital work.
Key Features of the Carer’s Support Grant:
- One-off Payment: It is paid once a year, with the €2,000 payment set for June 2025.
- Flexibility: The grant is not tied to any specific purpose, so you can use the funds as you see fit, whether for respite care or other needs.
- Eligibility: Carers who are receiving Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance will be paid the grant automatically, but you may still qualify if you’re not on one of these schemes.
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Who Is Eligible for the Carer’s Support Grant?
In 2025, eligibility for the Carer’s Support Grant has been expanded, particularly through changes made to the Carer’s Benefit, which now includes self-employed individuals. If you are not currently receiving any of the automatic payments, you can still apply if you meet the following criteria:
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: You must be aged 16 or over.
- Residency: You must be ordinarily resident in Ireland.
- Full-Time Care: You must be providing full-time care for at least 6 months, which includes the first Thursday in June.
- Living with the Person: You must be living with the person you care for during this period.
- Work and Education Restrictions: During the 6-month caring period, you cannot:
- Work more than 18.5 hours per week, whether as an employee or self-employed.
- Participate in education or training for more than 18.5 hours per week.
- Receive Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit.
- Sign on for credited contributions.
- Live in a hospital, convalescent home, or a similar institution.
If you meet these requirements, you may be eligible to apply for the Carer’s Support Grant.
How Much is the Carer’s Support Grant in 2025?
In 2025, the Carer’s Support Grant has been increased to €2,000, up from €1,850 in 2024. This one-off payment will be made on 5 June 2025, providing much-needed financial relief to carers.
Key Points:
- €2,000 per year for each person you are caring for.
- The payment is not taxable.
- You can receive the grant for each individual you care for, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
How to Apply for the Carer’s Support Grant
If you’re not automatically receiving a carer-related payment like Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance, you must apply for the Carer’s Support Grant. Here’s how you can do it:
Steps to Apply:
- Fill in the Application Form: Complete a Carer’s Support Grant application form for each person you are caring for. This form can be obtained from:
- Your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.
- Citizens Information Centres.
- Submit the Form: Once completed, submit the application to the Department of Social Protection.
- Application Dates: Applications for the 2025 Carer’s Support Grant will open in April 2025 and you can apply up until 31 December 2026.
The Department of Social Protection has confirmed that applications will be accepted from April each year for that year’s grant.
When Will the Grant Be Paid?
The Carer’s Support Grant will be paid once a year and in 2025, the payment will be issued on 5 June 2025. For those who qualify and are already receiving Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance, the payment will be made automatically, so you don’t need to apply.
For those who are not automatically eligible, the €2,000 payment will be issued after your application is processed.
Final Thoughts:
The €2,000 Carer’s Support Grant is a significant increase for 2025, offering financial support to carers across Ireland. Whether you’re automatically eligible for the grant or need to apply, this payment can help provide much-needed relief for those who dedicate their time to caring for loved ones.
Don’t miss out on this important opportunity. If you’re eligible but not receiving a related payment, be sure to apply between April 2025 and December 2026 to secure your Carer’s Support Grant and benefit from the increased payment in June 2025!