Guardian's Payment
€237 a week for a person bringing up a child whose parents have died.
Last checked July 2026
What it is
A weekly payment of €237 for a person bringing up a child whose parents have died, or where one has died and the other is unknown, missing or unable to care for the child. You do not have to be a relative. There are two versions: Contributory, based on a parent's PRSI record and not means-tested, and Non-Contributory, means-tested on the child's own means. Paid until the child turns 18, or 22 if in full-time education.
Who can get it
- You are bringing up a child whose parents have died, and you do not have to be a relative
- For the Contributory version, a parent has enough PRSI, and it is not means tested
- For the Non-Contributory version, the child's own means are assessed
- Both versions pay €237 a week. The difference is how you qualify, not what you get.
- The Contributory payment is based on a parent's PRSI record and is not means tested. The Non-Contributory one is means tested on the child's means, not yours.
- It is paid until the child turns 18, or 22 if they stay in full time education.
How to apply
Applications go through DSP. The official page has the full eligibility rules and the application itself.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 26 July 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
Questions people ask
How much is the Guardian's Payment?
€237 a week, for both the Contributory and the Non-Contributory version.
Do I have to be a relative to claim it?
No. It is for whoever is bringing the child up, related or not.
Is the Guardian's Payment means tested?
The Contributory version is not, it is based on a parent's PRSI record. The Non-Contributory version is means tested on the child's own means rather than the guardian's.
How long is it paid for?
Until the child turns 18, or 22 if they remain in full time education.
Related guides
- Carer's Allowance
- Carer's Support Grant
- Carer's Benefit
- Fuel Allowance
- MyFutureFund (Auto-Enrolment Retirement Savings)
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