Retirement Benefits in Ireland: What Are You Entitled To?

Planning for retirement involves more than just your pension savings. The Irish Government provides a range of social welfare payments and supports that may be available when you retire. Your entitlement depends on factors such as your age, PRSI contribution record, income, living arrangements and personal circumstances.

This guide provides an overview of the main retirement benefits available in Ireland and links to the official sources for more detailed information.

Retirement Social Welfare entitlements

Retirement Social Welfare Entitlements

1. State Pension (Contributory)

The State Pension (Contributory) is the main pension paid by the Department of Social Protection.

Who can qualify?

You may qualify if you:

  • Are aged 66 or over.
  • Have enough PRSI (Pay Related Social Insurance) contributions.
  • Have worked in Ireland or in certain countries that have social security agreements with Ireland.

Unlike the non-contributory pension, this payment is not means tested, so your savings or private pension do not normally affect your entitlement.

People born on or after 1 January 1958 can choose to claim their pension anytime between ages 66 and 70. Delaying your claim may increase your weekly payment.

Official information:

2. State Pension (Non-Contributory)

If you do not have enough PRSI contributions to qualify for the contributory pension, you may qualify for the State Pension (Non-Contributory).

Key points

  • Available from age 66.
  • Means tested.
  • Your income, savings and some assets are taken into account.
  • You must satisfy the habitual residence condition.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/publications/state-pensions/

3. Free Travel Scheme

Most people aged 66 or over who live permanently in Ireland qualify for the Free Travel Scheme.

The scheme allows free travel on many:

  • Bus services
  • Rail services
  • LUAS
  • Some ferry services

Depending on your circumstances, your spouse, partner or companion may also qualify.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/53c8b0-free-travel-scheme/

4. Household Benefits Package

The Household Benefits Package helps with some household bills.

It may include:

  • Electricity or gas allowance
  • Free TV Licence

Eligibility depends on your age and circumstances. Some people qualify automatically while others must satisfy a means test.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/household-benefits-package/

5. Fuel Allowance

Fuel Allowance is designed to help with heating costs during the winter months.

It is generally available to people receiving certain qualifying social welfare payments and who satisfy the relevant conditions.

Not everyone receiving a State Pension automatically qualifies.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/fuel-allowance/

6. Living Alone Increase

If you live alone and receive a qualifying social welfare payment, including a State Pension, you may receive an additional weekly payment.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/publications/living-alone-increase/

7. Increase for a Qualified Adult

If your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant has little or no income, you may qualify for an Increase for a Qualified Adult as part of your State Pension.

The amount payable depends on:

  • Your pension type.
  • Your partner’s income.
  • Other qualifying conditions.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/publications/state-pensions/

8. Increase for a Qualified Child

Some pension recipients who have dependent children may receive an Increase for a Qualified Child.

Eligibility depends on:

  • The child’s age.
  • Whether they remain in full-time education.
  • Household income in some cases.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/publications/state-pensions/

9. Age 80 Increase

People receiving the State Pension (Contributory) receive a higher weekly payment automatically once they reach age 80.

No separate application is normally required.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/05f6f8-state-pension-contributory/

10. Treatment Benefit Scheme

Many retired people qualify for the Treatment Benefit Scheme, which helps pay for:

  • Dental examinations and treatments
  • Eye tests
  • Glasses or contact lenses
  • Hearing tests
  • Hearing aids

Eligibility is based mainly on your PRSI record.

Official information:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/treatment-benefit-scheme/

11. Medical Card and GP Visit Card

Many retired people may qualify for a Medical Card or GP Visit Card depending on their income and circumstances.

These provide access to free or reduced-cost healthcare services.

Official information:

https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/1/schemes/medical-cards/

12. Local Authority Supports

Depending on where you live, additional supports may be available through your local authority, including:

  • Housing Adaptation Grants
  • Home improvement grants
  • Age Friendly Ireland services
  • Community supports

Contact your local council for details.

Before You Retire

Around six months before retiring, you should:

  • Check your PRSI contribution record.
  • Request your Contribution Statement.
  • Estimate your State Pension entitlement.
  • Decide when you wish to begin claiming your pension.
  • Review any occupational or private pensions you have.

The Department of Social Protection recommends applying approximately six months before you intend to start receiving your State Pension.