Invalidity Pension
€259.50 a week, not means-tested. It's based on your PRSI contributions, not your income or savings.
Last checked October 2026
What it is
A weekly payment of €259.50 for people who can't work because of a long-term illness or disability, based on your PRSI record rather than a means test. Unlike Illness Benefit, it is for people who have been unable to work for at least a year and are likely to stay unable for at least another year, or for life. Budget 2027: the maximum personal weekly rate rises from €259.50 to €269.50 from January 2027.
Who can get it
- You are under 66 and have a long-term illness or disability that stops you from working
- You have 260 weeks of PRSI contributions paid (Class A, E, H or S) since starting work, with 48 paid or credited in the last or second last complete contribution year before the relevant date, which is set by when your incapacity for work began
- You have been unable to work for at least 12 months and are likely to be unable for at least another 12 months, or you are likely to be unable to work for life
- It's not means-tested, only your PRSI record and medical condition are assessed.
- If you want to work, you may be able to apply for Partial Capacity Benefit in place of Invalidity Pension. Contact the Department before you take up any work or course.
- You may qualify for a Free Travel pass and the Household Benefits Package. If a social welfare payment is your only household income, you qualify for a medical card.
- If you have been getting Illness Benefit for 468 days, the Department may assess you and send you an Invalidity Pension form (INV2) if you may qualify. You can also apply yourself with the INV1 form or through MyWelfare.
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 7 October 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
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