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€270 per week for full-time carers of people with disabilities. Learn 2026 rates, means test changes, and how to apply with AutismCare support.
You must meet all four criteria to be eligible for Carer's Allowance in Ireland.
You must provide regular, substantial care due to disability, illness, or infirmity. This typically means 35+ hours per week on care activities and supervision.
You must live with the care recipient or nearby (within reasonable distance). You provide daily care and support, not just occasional help.
You can work no more than 18.5 hours per week in paid employment. Working above this limit will reduce or stop your Carer's Allowance.
Your income and savings must be below the threshold. From July 2026, income disregard increases to €1,000 (single) or €2,000 (couple).
| Scenario | Weekly Rate (2026) |
|---|---|
| Caring for one person | €270.00 |
| Caring for two or more people | €405.00 |
€2,300 per year (€1,150 contribution from July 2026)
Unlimited public transport across Ireland
Support with household expenses (electricity, gas)
Access to respite services and breaks from caring
Follow these five steps to submit your Carer's Allowance application to the Department of Social Protection.
Collect documentation showing the care recipient's disability and your care arrangements. This includes disability assessments, medical reports, evidence of living situation, and details of care tasks.
Download Form CR1 from gov.ie/en/service/carers-allowance/. Fill in all sections including your details, the care recipient's information, and details of your care arrangements and work hours.
The care recipient's GP or specialist should provide a medical report confirming their disability and care needs. AutismCare can provide occupational therapy reports detailing daily living support needs.
Post your completed form and supporting documents to the DSP Carers Allowance section in Longford. Include copies of proof of residence, work evidence, and the care recipient's birth certificate.
The DSP will process your application (typically 8-12 weeks) and notify you of their decision. If declined, you can appeal within 21 days with additional evidence.
We provide comprehensive care needs documentation to strengthen your Carer's Allowance application.
Comprehensive evaluations of the care recipient's daily living support needs, prepared by PSI-registered psychologists and occupational therapists.
All assessments conducted by Psychological Society of Ireland registered professionals recognised by government welfare agencies.
Detailed reports on support needed for activities of daily living (dressing, hygiene, meal preparation, supervision), exactly what DSP assessors need.
Child and adult assessments available to document care needs at any age, whether applying for DCA (under 16) or transitioning to Carer's Allowance.
Explore other government supports for carers and people with disabilities.
Find answers to common questions about Carer's Allowance.
Start your journey with AutismCare's professional assessments and supportive guidance.
Book care needs assessment with AutismCare (child or adult)
Collect care documentation and medical reports
Complete and submit application to Department of Social Protection
Once approved, receive allowance, Support Grant, and benefits
Carer's Allowance rates, means test limits, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. This page was last updated April 2026. Always verify current rates and application procedures with gov.ie/en/service/carers-allowance/ or contact the Department of Social Protection directly. AutismCare provides assessment services but does not guarantee Carer's Allowance approval.