Money help for parents in Ireland
Payments and help you may be able to get, roughly how much, where to apply and when.
This only shows what may be worth checking. It can't tell you if you qualify: the official page decides.
Child Benefit
€140 a month
A monthly payment for parents of children under 16. A €280 New Baby Grant comes with the first payment. Apply within 12 months of the birth.
Maternity Benefit
€299 a week
For women on maternity leave who pay social insurance (PRSI). Paid for 26 weeks. Apply at least 6 weeks before your leave (12 if self-employed).
Paternity Benefit
€299 a week
2 weeks for the other parent, if they pay PRSI. Take it within 6 months of the birth and apply at least 4 weeks before.
Parent's Benefit
€299 a week
9 weeks each for parents with enough PRSI, within the child's first 2 years. Apply at least 4 weeks before your leave.
National Childcare Scheme
Up to €5.10 an hour
Help with registered childcare from 6 months: €2.14 an hour for everyone, more depending on income.
Get reminders on the day
Giggle & Grow keeps these dates for you, with your diary, feeds and weaning, from pregnancy to toddler.
Names, amounts and links from official pages, checked 8 November 2026. Amounts change, often every January.