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Money to live on in Ireland

Worry about money keeps many people in a dangerous home. In Ireland there is help to live on while you get back on your feet.

This is general information, not legal advice. Each service was checked against its own website on 7 November 2026. Rules change: read what the service itself says before you decide.

Who can help

  • Domestic Violence Travel Supplement

    Help with the cost of essential journeys, including fuel for your own car, when you leave abuse. No means test for the first 3 months.

    Who it is for Anyone experiencing domestic violence who meets the habitual residence condition. You do not need to be getting another welfare payment.

    First step Fill in the application form on the gov.ie page. The Community Welfare Service or a Citizens Information centre can help you fill it in.

    Good to know You need a referral from a Cuan-funded domestic violence service, or a letter from the Gardaí, a GP, social worker or legal adviser.

    gov.ie

  • Additional Needs Payment

    A payment for essential costs you cannot meet from your income, such as a deposit for a rented home, replacing essential furniture, or child safety items.

    Who it is for People living in Ireland with an essential expense they cannot pay, whether they are on a welfare payment or working on a low income.

    First step Apply online at MyWelfare.ie, or collect a form at any Intreo Centre or Branch Office. You do not need an appointment.

    Good to know Fleeing abuse without the papers needed for the Travel Supplement? The department can give this payment for a week while you get them.

    gov.ie

  • Supplementary Welfare Allowance

    A basic weekly payment if you have no income or not enough to live on, including while you wait for another welfare payment to start.

    Who it is for People living in Ireland whose income is too low to meet their needs. It is means-tested and most people must meet the habitual residence condition.

    First step Contact the Department of Social Protection's Community Welfare Service and ask to speak to a Community Welfare Officer.

    citizensinformation.ie

  • One-Parent Family Payment

    A weekly payment for a parent bringing up a child alone, plus extra for each child. Child maintenance you get is not counted in the means test.

    Who it is for Parents under 66 who are the main carer of a child under 7 living with them, and who do not live with a spouse, civil partner or partner.

    First step Fill in the application form on gov.ie and return it to your local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.

    Good to know If you are separated, divorced or your civil partnership has ended, you must have lived apart for at least 3 months before you apply.

    gov.ie

  • MABS – Money Advice and Budgeting Service

    Free, impartial advice to help you manage your money, make a budget and deal with debt.

    Who it is for Anyone who needs help with debt or budgeting.

    First step Get in touch with MABS online or by phone, or find your local MABS office on their website.

    mabs.ie

  • Paid domestic violence leave

    Up to 5 days' leave in any 12 months, at your full rate of pay, to get help such as medical care, legal advice, counselling or a new place to live.

    Who it is for All employees who are experiencing or have experienced abuse, and employees supporting a partner, child or other dependant who is.

    First step Check if your employer has a domestic violence policy and follow its process. In an emergency you can take the leave without notice.

    Good to know You do not normally have to give your employer proof. Your employer should keep what you tell them confidential.

    citizensinformation.ie

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