In a groundbreaking move, the Irish government has announced a five-year programme aimed at significantly enhancing financial support for carers. Among the most important changes is the abolition of the means test for Carer’s Allowance and an increase in the weekly payment. These changes will ensure thousands more carers benefit from the allowance in the coming years. Here’s everything you need to know about the €260 weekly payment, eligibility requirements, and the exciting new reforms.
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What is Carer’s Allowance?
Carer’s Allowance is a weekly social welfare payment designed for individuals who care for someone who needs full-time care due to age, illness, or disability. The allowance is currently set at €260 per week for carers under the age of 66, but with recent government announcements, substantial changes are on the horizon.
Key Features of Carer’s Allowance:
- Target Audience: It is aimed at people who provide full-time care to someone who is aged 16 or over and requires continuous care due to age, disability, or illness. Caregivers for children under 16 receiving Domiciliary Care Allowance can also qualify.
- Financial Support: The weekly rate is currently €260, but this amount is set to rise over the next few years, as part of a broader package to support carers.
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Major Reform: Abolition of the Means Test
The means test—which currently assesses the income of carers and their families to determine eligibility—will be scrapped over the next five years. This move is expected to benefit thousands of carers, making it easier for them to access the support they need without having to navigate complex income assessments.
What is the Means Test?
Currently, to qualify for Carer’s Allowance, a carer’s income must fall below a certain threshold, and the income of their spouse or partner is also taken into account. The means test is calculated by adding up all sources of income, including cash and capital. However, the Irish government has confirmed that over the next five years, this test will be abolished, ensuring more carers can receive the allowance without income restrictions.
Eligibility for Carer’s Allowance
To qualify for Carer’s Allowance, you must meet several criteria, including age, residency, and care requirements. Here’s a breakdown of who can apply:
Criteria for Eligibility:
- Age: You must be aged 18 or over to apply.
- Residency: You must be habitually resident in Ireland.
- Full-Time Care: You must be providing full-time care for a person who is either:
- Aged 16 or over, and requires full-time care for at least 12 months.
- Under 16, and you are receiving Domiciliary Care Allowance for them.
- Work and Education Restrictions: You must not work or participate in education or training for more than 18.5 hours per week.
- Living Situation: You cannot be living in a hospital, convalescent home, or similar institution.
Under the current rules, carers who are married, in a civil partnership, or cohabiting with someone must meet income limits to qualify, but once the means test is abolished, these restrictions will no longer apply.
How Much is Carer’s Allowance?
In 2025, the maximum weekly payment for Carer’s Allowance is €260 for carers who are under 66 and caring for one person. However, the amount increases if you care for more than one person or if you are 66 or older.
Weekly Payment Breakdown:
- Aged under 66, caring for one person: €260
- Aged under 66, caring for two or more people: €390
- Aged 66 or over, caring for one person: €298
- Aged 66 or over, caring for two or more people: €447
In addition to the personal rate, carers can receive an extra amount for child dependants, which is a Child Support Payment. For children aged under 12, the full rate is €50 per child (half rate is €25). For children aged 12 and over, the full rate is €62 (half rate is €31).
How to Apply for Carer’s Allowance
To apply for the Carer’s Allowance, you will need to complete an application form, available from several locations:
Application Steps:
- Download the Application: You can download the Carer’s Allowance application form (CR1)here, or pick it up at:
- Your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.
- A Citizens Information Centre.
- Submit the Form: Complete and submit the form to the Department of Social Protection.
- Processing Time: Once submitted, your application will be processed, and you will receive an update about your eligibility.
Important Details:
- The means test will continue to apply for now, but it is expected to be phased out in the coming years.
- Carers who are not currently receiving Carer’s Allowance but meet the eligibility criteria should apply as soon as possible to begin receiving support.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Carer’s Allowance
The Irish government’s decision to abolish the means test and increase Carer’s Allowance payments over the next five years is a major step towards improving the financial situation for carers across the country. These reforms will make it easier for carers to get the support they deserve without facing income restrictions. Keep an eye on upcoming budget announcements for further details on how the payments will rise in the coming years.
If you’re a carer or know someone who is, now is the time to ensure that you are aware of these changes and ready to take advantage of the increased support available!