In Budget 2025, significant changes have been made to the Foster Care Allowance in Ireland. Here are the key updates:
Foster Care Allowance Rates
- Children Under 12: The weekly allowance will be set at €400.
- Children Aged 12 and Over: The weekly allowance will increase to €425.
These rates reflect an increase that was phased in following previous budget announcements, ensuring that foster carers receive adequate financial support for the children in their care.
Additional Support Measures
- Double Payments: Foster carers will receive a double payment of the Foster Care Allowance in October and December 2024, providing additional financial relief during the holiday season.
These adjustments are part of a broader social welfare package aimed at supporting vulnerable families and individuals. The government has committed to enhancing resources for foster care, acknowledging the essential role that foster carers play in providing stable homes for children in need.
Overall, these changes are designed to improve the financial situation of foster carers and ensure that they can continue to provide high-quality care.

What are the eligibility criteria for the increased Foster Care Allowance
To qualify for the increased Foster Care Allowance in Ireland, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
General Eligibility Criteria
- Foster Care Placement: The child must be placed in a foster care arrangement recognized by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency.
- Age of the Child: The allowance varies based on the age of the child:
- Under 12 years: €400 per week.
- 12 years and older: €425 per week.
Additional Considerations for Enhanced Allowances
- Children with Additional Needs: Enhanced allowances may be available for children with significant medical or educational needs that exceed the standard fostering allowance. This requires:
- Documentation from a qualified professional (e.g., medical reports) that outlines the child’s additional needs.
- A completed CA0008 Request for Additional Support Form, which must be certified by the child’s social worker and approved by the Area Manager.
- Assessment of Needs: The assessing social worker must provide evidence that the standard fostering allowance does not adequately cover the financial costs associated with caring for the child.
- Documentation Requirements: Applications for enhanced allowances should include:
- Clear assessments of need documented in the child’s care plan.
- Supporting reports from relevant professionals regarding any medical conditions or disabilities.
- Review Schedule: There should be a clear review schedule for any enhanced allowance arrangements to ensure they remain appropriate based on the child’s evolving needs.
These criteria ensure that foster carers receive appropriate financial support tailored to the needs of the children they care for, particularly those requiring additional assistance due to complex needs.