The payment is scheduled for the first Thursday in June each year

The payment will be issued automatically to those receiving Carer's Allowance, Carer's Benefit, and Domiciliary Care Allowance.

You could still qualify for the Carer’s Support Grant, even if you’re not receiving any of these payments.

Who can receive the Carer’s Support Grant?

Applications for the Carer's Support Grant can be made from April of the relevant year up until 31 December of the following year.

For example, applications for the 2026 grant can be submitted at any time from April 2026 through to 31 December 2027.

The Carer’s Support Grant is automatically paid on the first Thursday in June to those receiving Carer’s Allowance (full or half rate), Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance.

However, the grant is not means-tested, and even if you don't receive one of those payments, you may still be eligible to apply for the Carer’s Support Grant.

If someone cares for more than one person, the grant is paid for each individual they look after.

If you currently receive Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, or Domiciliary Care Allowance, you do not need to apply for the Carer’s Support Grant, as it will be paid to you automatically in June.

If you do not receive any of these payments, you will need to complete a Carer’s Support Grant application form (CSG1) for each person you care for.

How do you qualify for the grant?

To qualify for the grant, you must be aged 16 or over and live in Ireland. You must also provide full-time care for the person for at least six months, including the first Thursday in June.

In addition, you are generally required to live with the person you are caring for, unless specific conditions are met, such as being readily available to them and able to be contacted quickly and directly if you do not live together.

You will not qualify, however, if you work more than 18.5 hours per week, whether in employment or self-employment.

The same applies to enrolled students or those in training for more than 18.5 hours per week. You are also ineligible if you are receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance or Jobseeker’s Benefit, or if you are signing on for credited contributions.

You will further not qualify if you are living in a hospital, convalescent home, or similar institution.

If you want to apply, application forms are available from your local Intreo office or Citizens Information Centre.