Limits vary by council area — always confirm with your councilThe figures below reflect standard HAP limits. Some councils can approve discretionary payments up to 35% above the standard limit in cases of urgent need. Always check directly with your local council for the most current figures.
HAP rent limits by county (monthly)
CountySingle1–2 bed3+ bed
Dublin City€660€1,300€1,650
South Dublin€660€1,300€1,650
Fingal€660€1,300€1,550
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown€660€1,300€1,650
Cork City€500€1,000€1,200
Cork County£450€900€1,100
Galway City€500€975€1,200
Galway County€400€800€950
Limerick£450€875€1,050
Wicklow€500€1,000€1,200
Kildare€500€975€1,175
Meath€450€900€1,100
Other counties€350–€420€700–€850€850–€1,000
Rent above the limit = refusedIf your agreed rent is above your county's limit, HAP cannot cover it and your application will be refused. Negotiate with your landlord or look for a cheaper property before applying.
Discretionary top-ups
Councils can approve discretionary HAP payments up to 35% above standard limits in cases of urgent housing need — for example, homeless households or families in emergency accommodation. This is not automatic — you must request it and your council must agree.
Ask your council directlyIf your rent is slightly above the limit, ask the HAP team if a discretionary top-up applies in your situation. Don't assume it's refused without asking.
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