Household Benefits Package Ireland (2026): Who Qualifies & How to Apply

The Household Benefits Package is a Government support scheme that helps eligible people in Ireland with household running costs. It includes an Electricity or Gas Allowance and a Free Television Licence.

Household Benefits Package: Quick Answer

What it is: A support package to help with electricity or gas costs and your TV licence.
What you get: Electricity or Gas Allowance plus a Free TV Licence.
Who it’s for: Mainly people aged 70+, or aged 66–70 on a qualifying payment (or means-tested in some cases).
How to apply: Online via MyWelfare.ie or by post.

What Is the Household Benefits Package?

The Household Benefits Package is a Government scheme designed to assist older people and certain qualifying individuals with the cost of running their homes. Only one person per household can qualify, and you must be a full-time resident in the Republic of Ireland.

What Does the Household Benefits Package Include?

Benefit	What it covers	How it helps
Electricity or Gas Allowance	Helps reduce your electricity or natural gas costs	Reduces your energy bill
Free Television Licence	Covers the annual TV licence fee	Saves you the cost of a TV licence

Electricity or Gas Allowance

This allowance helps reduce your household energy costs. You can receive either the Electricity Allowance or the Gas Allowance (not both).

Even if you receive this support, your total bill may still vary depending on your tariff and supplier rates. Many households also review their energy plan annually to avoid overpaying.

Who Qualifies for the Household Benefits Package?

You may qualify if you are a full-time resident in Ireland and:

Aged 70 or over, or
Aged 66–70 and receiving a State Pension, or
Aged 66–70 and not receiving a State Pension but you pass a means test

Important: Only one person per household can receive the Household Benefits Package.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Apply online via MyWelfare.ie: Household Benefits Application
If you prefer a paper application or want more information, visit: Citizens Information – Household Benefits
Complete the required details and submit your application.

Household Benefits Package FAQs

Can I get both the Electricity Allowance and the Gas Allowance?

No. You can receive either the Electricity Allowance or the Gas Allowance (not both).

Is the Household Benefits Package paid directly to me?

In most cases, the allowance is applied directly to your electricity or gas account to reduce your bills.

Can more than one person in a household claim the Household Benefits Package?

No. Only one person per household can qualify.

Do I need to switch energy supplier to receive the allowance?

No. The Household Benefits Package is separate from your energy supplier. However, switching tariff could reduce your bills further.

What if I am not sure whether I qualify?

If you are unsure, check the official eligibility rules on MyWelfare.ie or Citizens Information before applying.

Want to Reduce Your Energy Bills Further?

The Household Benefits Package can help reduce your costs, but many households can lower their bills further by reviewing their tariff.

Find the Best Deal for Your Home

If you have questions, call 01-9125161 or email support@weswitchu.ie.

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Household Benefits Package Ireland (2026) – Who Qualifies & How to Apply