Ireland Considers Expanding Pay-Related Benefits to Carers

The Irish government is examining the possibility of extending its Pay-Related Benefit scheme to individuals who become full-time carers, mirroring the existing model for those who lose their jobs. This potential expansion aims to provide financial support linked to previous earnings for those who must suddenly leave employment to care for a loved one.

Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit: A Recap

The Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit (JPRB) was introduced in March 2025, offering a payment to those who become unemployed, with the amount directly tied to their prior income. For the first three months, the weekly rate is set at 60% of previous earnings, capped at €450 [Gov.ie]. Individuals with a substantial history of PRSI contributions can receive JPRB for up to nine months, while those with two to five years of contributions are eligible for up to six months [Gov.ie]. The minimum weekly payment is €125 [Gov.ie].

Pay-Related Carer’s Benefit: The Proposed Expansion

Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary has indicated that the government is committed to exploring the application of a similar pay-related approach to the Carer’s Benefit [The Irish Sun]. Currently, Carer’s Benefit provides a weekly payment of €271 for one care recipient, or €406.50 for those caring for two or more [Citizens Information]. Over 4,600 people currently receive Carer’s Benefit, with expenditure exceeding €76 million in 2026 [Oireachtas.ie].

Current Carer’s Benefit Provisions

Carer’s Benefit is available to insured individuals who must leave work or reduce their hours to provide full-time care. It is payable for up to two years per care recipient, and can be claimed in full or over multiple periods [Citizens Information]. Recipients also automatically qualify for the annual Carer’s Support Grant of €2,000 per care recipient [Oireachtas.ie].

Priorities for Carer Support

While exploring the Pay-Related Carer’s Benefit, Minister Calleary emphasized the government’s immediate priority is removing the means/income test for Carer’s Allowance [The Irish Sun].

Looking Ahead

The government’s experience with the Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit scheme will inform future decisions regarding pay-related schemes, including the potential introduction of a Pay-Related Carer’s Benefit. This move signals a broader commitment to aligning social welfare payments with previous earnings, providing more substantial support to those who experience disruptions to their employment, whether through job loss or the need to provide full-time care.