Apply/check Carer’s Benefit
1 tasks in suggested order
1. Apply/check Carer’s Benefit
Carer’s Benefit is for insured workers or self-employed people who leave work or reduce hours to provide full-time care. The 2026 rate is €271 a week for 1 care recipient and €406.50 for 2 or more, subject to the scheme conditions.
It can be paid for up to 104 weeks for each person cared for, in one period or separate periods, subject to the official rules.
Department of Social Protection.
Check PRSI history, the care recipient’s full-time-care need, your recent work/self-employment record and your work/study hours. Employment, self-employment, voluntary work, training or education must not exceed 18.5 hours a week.
The earnings limit is €1,000 a week after taxes from July 2026. Carer’s Benefit is taxable from 1 January 2026.
Official source: gov.ie
