Household Benefits Package: Ireland’s €420 Energy & TV Licence Support in 2026
Households across Ireland may be eligible for a significant financial boost in 2026 through the Household Benefits Package (HBP). This scheme provides support with energy costs and includes a free TV licence, potentially saving families up to €580 annually.
What is the Household Benefits Package?
The Household Benefits Package is designed to help with the expenses of electricity or gas bills and the TV licence fee. It operates through monthly payments towards utility bills and covers the cost of a television licence. As of February 2026, the package offers a potential benefit of €420 per year, comprising monthly allowances and a free TV licence.
Who is Eligible for the Household Benefits Package?
Eligibility for the HBP depends on age and income. There are two main categories of applicants:
- Individuals Aged 70 or Over: Anyone aged 70 or over who is living in Ireland full-time qualifies for the HBP without a means test or requirement to receive a State pension.
- Individuals Under 70: Those under 70 can qualify if they are receiving a qualifying social welfare payment. Additional rules apply, and eligibility may depend on income and household circumstances.
Only one person per household can claim the benefit.
What Does the Package Cover?
The HBP provides two key allowances:
- Energy Allowance: A monthly payment of €35 (€420 annually) can be applied towards either electricity or natural gas bills.
- Free Television Licence: The package includes a complimentary television licence, which typically costs €160 per year.
Qualifying Social Welfare Payments (Under 70)
Individuals under 70 may qualify for the HBP if they receive one of the following social welfare payments:
- State Pension (Contributory)
- State Pension (Non-Contributory)
- Bereaved Partner’s (Contributory) Pension
- Deserted Wife’s Benefit
- Carer’s Allowance (full or half-rate payment, living with the person cared for)
- An ordinary Garda Widow’s Pension
Additional conditions may apply for those living with a spouse, cohabitant, or civil partner, including requirements related to receiving an increase in their qualifying social welfare payment or their partner receiving a qualifying payment.
How to Apply for the Household Benefits Package
To apply for the HBP, you must:
- Be living in Ireland full-time, all year round.
- Be the only person in your household receiving the HBP.
- Meet the age requirements (70 or over, or under 70 with a qualifying social welfare payment).
- Have the electricity or gas bill in your name if applying for an allowance as a credit on your bill.
Where to Find More Information
For more detailed information and to apply for the Household Benefits Package, visit the following resources:
Key Takeaways
- The Household Benefits Package provides up to €420 annually to help with energy costs and includes a free TV licence.
- Individuals aged 70 or over are automatically eligible without a means test.
- Those under 70 must be receiving a qualifying social welfare payment to be eligible.
- Only one person per household can claim the benefit.