Thousands can qualify for this payment
Stock image of someone counting money(Image: Getty Image)
Next year, the Carer’s Support Grant will be available to thousands more individuals.
The Department of Social Protection annually disburses the Carer’s Support Grant.
Those receiving Carer’s Allowance (both full rate and half-rate), Carer’s Benefit and Domiciliary Care Allowance are automatically granted this support.
Due to a change in criteria for one of the automatic schemes next year, more recipients are poised to benefit from the payment.
In July 2026, the weekly income disregard for Carer’s Allowance will increase by €375 to €1,000 for a single person, and by €750 to €2,000 for a couple. This means that more people will be eligible to claim Carer’s Allowance, and consequently, the Carer’s Support Grant in the future, reports RSVP Live.
The grant is typically paid out on the first Thursday of June, so in 2026, recipients can anticipate payment on the 4th of June.
Here’s everything you need to know about the grant.
What is the Carer’s Support Grant?
The Carer’s Support Grant is an annual payment made to carers by the Department of Social Protection (DSP). It was formerly known as the Respite Care Grant.
The grant can be used in any way you choose. While it can be utilised to cover respite care costs, there is no obligation to do so.
Only one Carer’s Support Grant can be paid per person receiving care.
How much is the Carer’s Support Grant?
In 2026, the Carer’s Support Grant will amount to €2,000.
You can receive a Carer’s Support Grant for each person you are caring for. The grant is not subject to tax.
How to apply
If you’re on Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance, you don’t need to apply for the Carer’s Support Grant. It will be automatically paid into your account in June.
But if you’re not getting any of those benefits, you should fill in a Carer’s Support Grant application form (pdf) for each person you’re looking after.
You can also pick up the application form from your local:
- Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office, or
- Citizens Information Centre
You can apply for a Carer’s Support Grant for any particular year from April of that year until 31 December of the following year.
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