Family support
Child Benefit
Summary
Monthly support for parents or guardians of eligible children.
Who this may help
You may qualify if you are responsible for a child who normally lives with you and is fully supported by you, and you meet the Habitual Residence Condition.
Who may not qualify
You may not qualify if you do not meet the Habitual Residence Condition, or if the child is age 19 or older.
Current rate
Child Benefit is €140 per month for each child at the standard rate.
- One child: €140 per month.
- Twins: €210 per child per month (1.5 times the single rate).
- Other multiple births: €280 per child per month (double the single rate).
- A Newborn Baby Grant of €280 is paid in addition to the first month of Child Benefit for children born on or after 1 December 2024.
Source: gov.ie — Child Benefit (Department of Social Protection) (effective Last updated 7 October 2025 (source page))
Eligibility at a glance
| Means test | Not means-tested. |
|---|---|
| Child age | Under 16, or under 19 if in full-time education, full-time training, or has a disability and cannot support themselves. |
| Residence | Applicant must meet the Habitual Residence Condition. |
| Who is usually paid | Usually paid to the child’s mother or step-mother; can be paid to father/step-father or another carer where relevant. |
Payment frequency
Child Benefit is paid monthly on the first Tuesday of every month.
Application steps
- Check eligibility (child living with and fully supported by you, age rules, and Habitual Residence Condition).
- If eligible for online claiming, apply through MyWelfare using a verified MyGovID and PPSN.
- If the child was not born in Ireland or birth was not registered within 3 months, complete form CB1 and send it to the Child Benefit Section.
- If claiming for a child aged 16, 17 or 18, complete and submit form CB2 for each child.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Child Benefit is paid for children aged 19 or older (it is not).
- Not submitting CB1 when required (for example, child not born in Ireland or birth registration outside the required time).
- Not submitting CB2 for each child aged 16, 17 or 18.
- Applying online without a verified MyGovID or PPSN when these are required.
FAQs
How much is Child Benefit in Ireland?
The standard Child Benefit rate is €140 per month for each child. Higher rates apply for twins and other multiple births.
Is Child Benefit means-tested?
No. Child Benefit is not means-tested, but you must meet qualifying conditions such as the Habitual Residence Condition.
When is Child Benefit paid?
Child Benefit is paid monthly on the first Tuesday of every month.
Can I get Child Benefit for more than one child?
Yes. Child Benefit is paid for each qualifying child. Special rates apply for twins and other multiple births.
Where do I apply?
Apply through MyWelfare where available, or use form CB1. For children aged 16, 17 or 18, submit form CB2.
Next steps
How to apply
Apply through MyWelfare if invited and you have a verified MyGovID. If your child was not born in Ireland or birth was not registered within 3 months, submit form CB1 to the Child Benefit Section. For children aged 16, 17 or 18, submit CB2.
Official source
Primary official source: gov.ie (Department of Social Protection)
Additional public guidance: Citizens Information