New rules for rent allowances means tenants with high rents can also qualify

From January, tenants with high rents can also qualify for a rent allowance under certain conditions. The new rules mean that an additional 170,000 people will be eligible for the housing benefit, intended to help people afford their housing costs, the government announced.

Currently, tenants with rent exceeding €900 automatically don’t qualify for the housing benefit, with the idea that if you can qualify for a rent that high, you can afford it. But due to the housing shortage, many tenants are stuck paying rent beyond their means because it is the only suitable living space they can find.

From 1 January 2026, everyone aged 21 and over can apply for a housing benefit, regardless of their rent. However, the government will only pay the benefit on the portion of the rent up to €932.93 per month. For young people aged 18 to 20, the government will pay a benefit on up to €498.20.

There are a few conditions that apply, such as an income and assets limit. For single tenants, only those with less than €38,479 in assets qualify. The amount of the allowance depends on income and rent. Service charges will no longer be included in the calculation next year.