Rent Supplement — How Much Will I Get?

How the payment is calculated

DSP starts with your actual rent. They check that it is within the maximum county limit. Then they subtract your minimum contribution (at least €30 per week). Then they reduce it based on any assessable income you have above the basic social welfare rate. The result is your weekly Rent Supplement payment.

Maximum rent limits by county (2026)

DSP sets maximum rent limits. Your supplement will not cover rent above these amounts. Limits are set per household size and county.

Note: Limits shown are indicative for 2026. Always confirm the exact limit for your county with your CWO — rates are reviewed and updated periodically.

How income affects your payment

If you have no income other than your social welfare payment, your Rent Supplement is calculated as above — rent minus your minimum contribution. If you have additional income (part-time work, maintenance, etc.), each extra euro of assessable income reduces your payment by one euro.

The first €75 per week of part-time earnings is not counted (the earnings disregard). Income from Child Benefit, maintenance, and other sources is also assessed.

Payments for couples

If you live with a partner or spouse, both of your incomes are assessed. The couple's minimum contribution is €40 per week. The combined assessable means of both partners are taken into account when calculating the payment amount.

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