Q.  I have been renting a flat for the last five months but have just lost my job and will be living on Jobseeker’s Benefit until I find another one. Will I qualify for Rent Supplement?

13.09.09

In general, you will qualify for this payment if your only income is a social welfare or HSE payment and you satisfy the other conditions. As of 27 July 2009 entitlement is now restricted to people who are existing tenants for at least six months or who are on a local authority housing list following a full housing assessment. As you have only been renting for five months, you will not be regarded as eligible for another month.

At that time, you may be eligible for Rent Supplement if the accommodation is not too large for your needs and the rent is below the maximum rent level set for your area. Apply to your local Community Welfare Officer, who will decide if you are eligible and calculate the amount you will get. Your weekly income after paying rent must not fall below a certain minimum level; for a single person aged over 20, this is currently €204.30, which is the same rate as Jobseeker’s Benefit. You must pay a minimum 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 over the basic Supplementary Welfare level. Rent Supplement is paid to you weekly or monthly by cheque, Electronic Fund Transfer or post draft, usually in arrears.
 

Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741

Return to > Citizens Information