Thousands across Ireland to receive €2,000 payment this week as Government confirms date
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The Government expects to pay out approximately €336 million under the scheme this year
More than 147,000 carers across Ireland will receive a €2,000 payment this week as the annual Carer’s Support Grant begins issuing nationwide.
The Department of Social Protection has confirmed that the tax free payment will be paid on Thursday, June 4, providing a significant financial boost to carers who provide full-time care for older people and people with disabilities.
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The Government expects to pay out approximately €336 million under the scheme this year, with a grant available regardless of a carer’s means or social insurance contributions.
The payment is worth €2,000 for each person being cared for. More than 18,000 carers who look after two or more people will receive multiple grants as a result.
Those already receiving Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit of Domiciliary Care Allowance do not need to apply, as the payment will be made automatically into their nominated bank account or post office account.
Announcing the payment, Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary thanked carers for the vital role they played in communities across Ireland.
He said the Carer’s Support Grant had been increased to €2,000 in recognition of the contribution made by carers and noted that further improvements to Carer’s Allowance income thresholds are due to take effect from July.
The Carer’s Support Grant, formerly known as the Respite Care Grant, is available to full-time carers aged 16 and over who meet the qualifying conditions. It is also fully exempt from income tax, PRSI and USC.
Carers who are not currently receiving Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit or Domiciliary Care Allowance may still qualify for the payment if they have been providing full-time care for at least six months, including the first Thursday in June, and meet the other eligibility requirements.
The annual payment was increased to €2,000 last year, it’s highest ever level, and remains one of the largest once-off supports available to carers in Ireland.