- Over 12,500 households impacted by COVID-19 have availed of rent supplement
- Anyone who is experiencing financial difficulties with their rent is encouraged to check gov.ie or contact their local Intreo Centre where they can get more information about Rent Supplement.
Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys, TD, has today extended the Rent Supplement flexibilities that were introduced in response to Covid-19.
The flexibilities in the Rent Supplement Scheme were due to expire on March 31st, 2021.
However, in line with the extension to the Pandemic Unemployment Payment and Enhanced Illness Benefit, the measures are now being extended until June 30th, 2021.
Rent Supplement is a means assessed, short-term income support.
It is aimed at people living in private rented accommodation who cannot meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.
Over 12,500 have availed of Rent Supplement since the Pandemic began last March. Of these, some 8,316 remain in payment.
Announcing the extension of the flexibilities, Minister Humphreys commented:
Rent Supplement continues to play a key role in supporting families and individuals, including those who have suffered financially as a result of the Pandemic.
The scheme is currently supporting almost 20,000 recipients across the country.
It helps to ensure that people in private rented accommodation, but whose circumstances have changed due to the temporary loss of employment, can continue to meet their rental commitments.
I would strongly urge anyone who is on a low income or currently out of work because of the Pandemic, and who is experiencing difficulties in meeting their rent, to check online or contact their local Intreo Centre where they will get more information on how to apply for this payment.
Some €116.19 million has been provided the Department of Social Protection for Rent Supplement in 2021.
Full details on Rent Supplement are available here
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