Q.  I’ve lost my job and have been struggling to keep up with my rent since. What help can I get?

10.05.10

In general, if your only income is a social welfare or Health Service Executive (HSE) payment, you will qualify for a Rent Supplement. However, if you or your partner is in full-time employment (over 29 hours a week) you do not qualify for this payment.

You may be eligible if the accommodation is suitable for your needs, the rent is below the maximum rent level set for your county and you are: Assessed in the last 12 months by a local authority as being eligible for and in need of social housing or living in private rented accommodation for 6 months (183 days) out of the last 12 months.
You apply to the Community Welfare Officer (CWO) at your local health centre. The CWO decides if you are eligible for Rent Supplement and calculates the amount you will get. This is worked out to ensure that your weekly income after paying rent does not fall below the Supplementary Welfare Allowance rate (currently €196.00 for people over 25) minus €24. This is because you must pay a contribution of at least €24 towards your rent. You may pay more than €24 because you are also required to contribute any additional assessable means that you have above the SWA rate towards your rent.

If you are in difficulty with rent arrears a new website from the Citizens Information Board and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), www.keepingyourhome.ie , provides comprehensive information on the services and entitlements available.

Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741

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