Older people benefits in Ireland
There are a number of welfare payments available to retired and older people living in Ireland.
State Pensions
The State Pension (Contributory) is paid to people from the age of 66 who have enough Irish social insurance contributions. It is not means-tested.
The State Pension (Non-Contributory) is means tested may be paid from age 66 to people in Ireland who do not qualify for a State Pension (Contributory).
Benefit Payments for 65 Year Olds are paid to people aged 65 who have retired from work and who have enough social insurance contributions. It is not means-tested.
Free Travel in Ireland
Everyone aged 66 and over living permanently in Ireland is entitled to travel free of charge on public transport. Others on certain social welfare payments also share this entitlement. For further information please visit Border People – Free Travel Scheme
Household Benefits Package
You may qualify if you are aged 70 or over, or aged between 66 and 70 and receiving the State Pension. Others may also qualify, depending on their circumstances.
The Household Benefits Package (HBP) helps towards the costs of your electricity or gas bills. It also includes your television licence. Only one HBP is payable per household.
For further information please visit:
Living Alone Increase
The Living Alone Increase is an extra payment for people aged 66 and over, on social welfare pensions who are living alone. For further information please visit – Citizensinformation.ie – Living Alone Increase
Fuel Allowance
Fuel Allowance is a payment to help with the cost of heating your home during the winter months. It is a means tested payment under the National Fuel Scheme and is paid to people who are getting a State Pension or are dependent on long-term social welfare and who are unable to provide for their own heating needs. For further information please visit Gov.ie – Fuel Allowance
See also:
- Citizensinformation.ie – Older and retired people
- Age Action Ireland
- Care Alliance Ireland
- Safe Home Ireland
Page last checked: December 2022
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