Housing Calculators, Guides, and Tools

Differential rent is a means-tested rent system used by Irish local authorities for social housing. Your rent is calculated as a percentage of your assessable household income, with rates varying by council. Each of Ireland's 31 local authorities sets its own charge rates, income disregards, and minimum/maximum rent thresholds.

Your HAP payment is based on your local authority area, household size, and the HAP rent limits set by the Department of Housing. You pay a differential rent contribution to the local authority based on your income, and the council pays the landlord directly. If the actual rent exceeds the HAP limit, you pay any top-up.

HAP rent limits vary by local authority and household size. For example, a couple with 1 child in Dublin can receive up to EUR 1,550 per month, while the same household in a rural area may receive EUR 575-750. Local authorities can apply discretion of up to 35% above standard limits in some cases.

Use the Differential Rent Calculator above. Select your local authority, enter your household income and composition, and the calculator applies your council's specific rules to produce your weekly or monthly rent. Each council has different charge rates and income disregards.

HAP is a long-term housing support administered by local authorities, while Rent Supplement is a short-term payment from the Department of Social Protection. HAP tenants are considered to have their housing need met and are removed from the social housing waiting list. Rent Supplement is being phased out in favour of HAP.