Q.  I co-own a house with my sister and we pay the mortgage jointly. I lost my job and I am now getting Jobseeker’s Benefit but am struggling to pay my share of the mortgage. Since my sister is working full-time I don’t think I can get Mortgage Interest Supplement. Is there any other help available?

15.05.11

You may have misunderstood the criteria for MIS. The disqualification for working full time only applies to couples. This means that if a spouse, civil partner or cohabitant owned the house with you their circumstances would be taken into account. However, your sister’s circumstances are irrelevant. If you personally meet all the criteria for Mortgage Interest Supplement you can get help with the interest part of your mortgage payments. Your lender can tell you what part of your monthly mortgage payment goes towards the interest on your loan.

As you are aware you won’t qualify for MIS if you, your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant works more than 30 hours a week or if you are in full-time education. If your loan is in arrears and you have not engaged with your lender you may not be awarded MIS. However each case is considered individually. You will not be awarded MIS for interest payments on arrears on your mortgage. The scheme is administered by Community Welfare Officers in your local health centre. Visit  www.keepingyourhome.ie  to find out more about the rules for Mortgage Interest Supplement and how to apply.

Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741

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