Expansion of carers allowance will benefit 138 carers in Mayo

Changes to the means test for carers allowance will see more carers qualify for the payment in Mayo, says Minister of State Alan Dillon.

Minister Dillon said 5,280 carers across the country will receive an increase in their weekly payment as a result of these changes. In addition to this, it is expected that many more carers will now qualify for the payment for the first time under the higher income limits.

“This change to the carers allowance is a hugely positive step which was announced in Budget 2025 and takes effect this week," he explained.

"The weekly income disregard for the carers allowance payment will increase from €450 to €625 for a single person, and from €900 to €1,250 for carers with a spouse/partner.

"It will mean that 5,280 carers across the country will receive an increase in their weekly payment. I am delighted that this includes 138 carers across Mayo.”

Minister Dillon added: “There have been significant changes to the carers allowance means test in recent years with the income disregard increased by €292.50 for a single person and €585 for a couple since 2022.

"The further increase in the income limits this week will mean that 99% of people receiving carers allowance will now receive the maximum rate of payment. In addition, these changes will mean that many more carers in Mayo who were previously outside the income limits will now qualify for a payment.

"Our carers play a vital role in our society and we need to support them. This is a welcome step, but we need to go further. The Programme for Government commits to phasing out the means test entirely during the lifetime of this Government.”