What Revenue Says About RTB Registration

According to Revenue's official guidance, while landlords are legally required to register tenancies with the RTB, this is not a requirement for tenants claiming the Rent Tax Credit.

When you submit your claim through myAccount, you'll be asked for the RTB registration number, but this field is optional. You can simply select "I don't know" or leave it blank.

Important: Revenue may contact you later to verify your rental arrangement. Keep proof of rent payments (bank statements) and your lease agreement just in case.

How to Check if Your Tenancy is RTB Registered

Even though it's not required for claiming, you might want to check if your tenancy is registered:

Go to www.rtb.ie
Click "Check if a tenancy is registered"
Enter your property address
If registered, you'll see the registration number

What if My Landlord Isn't Registered?

If your landlord hasn't registered the tenancy with the RTB, you have two options:

Option 1: Claim Anyway (Recommended)

Submit your Rent Tax Credit claim without the RTB number. Revenue will likely process it without issue. If they need verification, they'll contact you.

Option 2: Ask Your Landlord to Register

You can politely ask your landlord to register with the RTB. It's their legal obligation, and failure to register can result in fines for them (not you).

Note: Your landlord's failure to register with the RTB is their issue, not yours. You should not be penalized for their non-compliance when claiming your tax credit.

What Documents to Keep Instead

If you don't have an RTB registration number, make sure to keep these documents as proof of your rental arrangement:

Bank statements showing regular rent payments to your landlord
Lease agreement or rental contract (even an informal one)
Landlord contact details (name, address, phone/email)
Utility bills in your name at the rental address
Any written communication with your landlord about rent

Common Concerns Answered

Will Revenue contact my landlord?

Revenue may cross-reference claims, but they won't necessarily contact your landlord directly. If there are discrepancies, they'll contact you first.

Can my claim be rejected without RTB number?

It's very unlikely. The RTB field is optional in myAccount. Revenue processes thousands of claims without RTB numbers each year.

Should I report my landlord to the RTB?

That's your decision. While landlords should register, reporting them could affect your relationship. Many renters simply claim without the RTB number and move on.

Can I Claim Rent Tax Credit Without RTB Registration?

Quick Answer