Rent Tax Credit vs HAP: What's the Difference?
Both help with housing costs in Ireland, but they're very different. Here's what you need to know about Rent Tax Credit and Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).
Key Point
You cannot claim Rent Tax Credit if you receive HAP, RAS, or Rent Supplement. These supports are mutually exclusive.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Rent Tax Credit | HAP |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | Tax credit (refund) | Housing subsidy |
| Who provides it? | Revenue (tax office) | Local Council |
| Income limit? | No limit | Yes, means-tested |
| Max value (2024/25) | €1,000/year single | Varies by area |
| How paid? | Refund to you | Direct to landlord |
| Housing list needed? | No | Yes |
What is Rent Tax Credit?
Rent Tax Credit is a tax relief that reduces your income tax bill. It's available to anyone who pays rent for their home in Ireland, regardless of income level.
- Worth up to €1,000 per year for single people (€2,000 for couples)
- Claimed through Revenue myAccount
- Paid as a cash refund or reduction in tax owed
- Available to all income levels
- Can be backdated to 2022
What is HAP?
Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) is a social housing support for people who qualify for social housing. It's means-tested and only available to those on lower incomes.
- Pays part of your rent directly to your landlord
- You pay a contribution based on your income
- Must be on the social housing waiting list
- Administered by your local council
- Income limits apply
Which One Should I Claim?
Claim Rent Tax Credit if:
- You pay rent privately and don't receive HAP/RAS/Rent Supplement
- You earn too much to qualify for social housing supports
- You want a straightforward tax refund
- You're not on the housing waiting list
Apply for HAP if:
- You're on a low income and struggling to pay rent
- You qualify for the social housing waiting list
- You need more substantial help with rent costs
- HAP limits in your area cover a significant portion of your rent
Remember: You cannot have both. If you're currently on HAP and your circumstances change, you may be able to switch to Rent Tax Credit later.
What About Rent Supplement and RAS?
Like HAP, these housing supports also prevent you from claiming Rent Tax Credit:
- Rent Supplement - Short-term payment from DSP for those in urgent need
- RAS (Rental Accommodation Scheme) - Long-term housing support, being replaced by HAP
If you receive any of these, you're not eligible for Rent Tax Credit during that period.
Eligible for Rent Tax Credit?
If you're not on HAP, check how much you can claim back
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