Thousands of Irish households are set to receive a €2,000 lump sum payment in the coming months, with the official payment date now confirmed. The Carer’s Support Grant, as it’s officially known, is an annual benefit intended to acknowledge the vital work of those providing full-time care to family members.
Recipients are free to spend the grant as they see fit, whether it’s towards respite care, household bills, or other personal expenses. Individuals already receiving specific social welfare payments will receive the grant automatically, while others may be eligible and need to apply.
Who Qualifies for the €2,000 Grant?
The Carer’s Support Grant will be paid on Thursday, June 5th. The Department of Social Protection distributes the grant annually. Those automatically eligible include individuals receiving Carer’s Allowance (both full and half rates), Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance.
However, eligibility isn’t limited to those already receiving these payments. Individuals providing full-time care to an older person or a person with a disability, regardless of their income or social insurance contributions, may also qualify.
To be eligible, applicants must be aged 16 or over, ordinarily resident in Ireland, and providing full-time care for at least six months, including the first Thursday in June. Generally, they must also be living with the person they are caring for, though exceptions exist for situations where immediate contact is possible.
There are also restrictions regarding employment and education. During the six-month qualifying period, applicants cannot work more than 18.5 hours per week as an employee or in self-employment, participate in education or training for more than 18.5 hours a week, or be receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit. They also cannot be residing in a hospital or similar institution.
An exception is made for babies or children receiving medical treatment in a hospital or institution, provided they qualify for Domiciliary Care Allowance.
Grant Amount and Application Process
The Carer’s Support Grant for 2026 is valued at €2,000, an increase from the €1,850 provided in 2024. If an individual provides care for more than one person, they will receive a grant for each individual they support.
Those already receiving Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance do not need to apply; the grant will be automatically credited to their account in June. However, those not currently receiving these payments must complete a Carer’s Support Grant application form (CSG1) for each person they care for. These forms are available at local Intreo Centres, Social Welfare Branch Offices, and Citizens’ Information Centres.
The Carer’s Support Grant represents a significant financial support for dedicated caregivers across Ireland, offering a small measure of recognition for their invaluable contributions to society.
