Why does my rent depend on which council I'm in?

There is no national scheme. Each council sets its own differential rent (council rent based on income) scheme. Dublin City charges 18% of income above €55 a week, Fingal 14.5% of all income, and Limerick 14.5% of the first €275 and 19% above.

If I earn more on HAP, will I lose it?

No. Once you have HAP there is no income limit, so you keep it. Your rent to the council goes up instead, and you can stay on the transfer list for a council or housing association home.

Pay after tax, USC and PRSI, and welfare payments, including Working Family Payment in most councils. Child Benefit, Fuel Allowance and Domiciliary Care Allowance are not counted.

Every scheme has a hardship rule. Ask the council's rents section: they can lower the rent for a set time. Pay what you can and keep in touch, as arrears can put your tenancy at risk.

Council and social housing

What will my council rent be?

Your weekly rent to the council, a housing association or HAP, worked out under your own council's scheme.

Self-assessment tool. The figures come from your own answers. It isn't advice, and you're responsible for what you file or claim. heypenny.ie is a trading name of Kinch Press. Read the disclaimer.

Common questions

Why does my rent depend on which council I'm in?: There is no national scheme. Each council sets its own differential rent (council rent based on income) scheme. Dublin City charges 18% of income above €55 a week, Fingal 14.5% of all income, and Limerick 14.5% of the first €275 and 19% above.
If I earn more on HAP, will I lose it?: No. Once you have HAP there is no income limit, so you keep it. Your rent to the council goes up instead, and you can stay on the transfer list for a council or housing association home.
What income counts?: Pay after tax, USC and PRSI, and welfare payments, including Working Family Payment in most councils. Child Benefit, Fuel Allowance and Domiciliary Care Allowance are not counted.
What if I can't pay?: Every scheme has a hardship rule. Ask the council's rents section: they can lower the rent for a set time. Pay what you can and keep in touch, as arrears can put your tenancy at risk.

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