State Entitlements and Benefits
There are state benefits and supports available for people with ASD and their parents/carers. These state-funded benefits/entitlements are offered by various government departments, including the Dept. of Health/HSE, Dept. of Education, Dept. of Social Welfare, and Dept. of Revenue Commissioners. A list of some of these benefits is provided below. Applications for these various benefits and grants are submitted to the relevant department, who will advise about the eligibility criteria, which can change from year to year.
- Domiciliary Care Allowance
This allowance is for children under 16 with severe disabilities who require significant ongoing care and support. Further information about Domiciliary Care Allowance can be found here.
- Carer’s Allowance
The Carer’s Allowance is paid to the parents or carers who live with the individual with ASD/disability, and who look after them full-time. This allowance is means-tested. More information about this allowance can be accessed here.
- Disability Allowance
This allowance is provided to individuals with ASD/disability who are over the age of 16. More information about Disability Allowance can be found here.
- Carer’s Support Grant (previously known as the ‘Respite Care Grant’)
This grant is a payment provided annually to carers of individuals with ASD/disability. More information about this grant and carer’s eligibility can be found here.
- Home Tuition Grant
This grant funds a home educational scheme for children who are unable to attend school for various reasons, incl. ASD/disabilities. The grant also funds ASD Early Intervention school placements for children on the autism spectrum. More information about the Home Tuition Grant can be found here.
- Summer Programme
This Summer Programme offers educational supports for children with complex special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage, incl. those with ASD. Information about the Summer Programme can be accessed here and here.
- School Transport Scheme
This scheme provides school transport services for children with special educational needs, incl. ASD, to and from school. For more information about this scheme and eligibility, see here.
- Medical Card
Individuals with ASD and their families may be eligible for a Medical Card or a GP Visit Card. More information on eligibility and the application process can be found here.
- Tax Relief and Credits
Individuals with ASD and their families may be entitled to various tax relief and credits incl. the ‘Incapacitated Child Tax Credit’ and/or tax relief on additional health care expenses, and VAT returns. More information about these reliefs and credits can be obtained from here and here.
