Living on an island in Ireland can be peaceful but also more expensive. Travel costs, limited access to services, and higher prices for daily needs make island life harder. To help with these extra expenses, the Irish government is offering a helpful payment boost to those who live on specific islands.
This bonus is called the Increase for Living on a Specified Island. It’s a top-up added to existing social welfare benefits, giving residents an extra €20 each week. That adds up to €1,040 every year – a big help for many people, especially those on a fixed income like retirees or carers.
Many people don’t know about this support, even though it’s simple to receive. If you already get a qualifying welfare payment and live on one of the approved islands, the bonus is added automatically – no need to fill out another form. Let’s explore who can get this money, which islands are included, and how it works.
What Is the Island Bonus in 2025?
The Increase for Living on a Specified Island is a government support program. It helps people living full-time on certain Irish islands by giving them a weekly bonus. This extra €20 is added to regular social welfare payments and is meant to make up for the higher costs of island living.
Over the course of a year, this weekly bonus totals €1,040. It is not a separate benefit you apply for – instead, it is automatically included when someone qualifies for specific welfare payments and lives on an eligible island.
Who Can Receive This Bonus?
To get the extra €1,000 a year, you must meet three conditions:
1. Live on a Recognized Island Full-Time
You must live permanently on one of the government-approved islands. Having a holiday home or staying part-time does not count.
2. Be Age 66 or Older – Or Get Specific Payments
The allowance is mainly for people aged 66 and over. However, younger people can also qualify if they receive one of these social welfare payments:
- State Pension (Contributory or Non-Contributory)
- Blind Pension
- Invalidity Pension
- Carer’s Allowance
- One-Parent Family Payment
- Widow’s, Widower’s, or Surviving Civil Partner’s Pension
- Widow’s/Widower’s Benefit from the Occupational Injuries Scheme
Even EU pensioners may be eligible if they live full-time on a qualifying island.
List of Islands That Qualify
If you live on one of these islands, you may be eligible for the extra payment:
Donegal:
- Árainn Mhór, An tOileán Ruaidh, Inis Bó Finne, Toraigh, Gabhla, Inis Fraoich Uachtarach
Galway:
- Árainn, Inis Meáin, Inis Oírr, Inishturk, Omey Island
Cork:
- Bere Island, Cléire (Cape Clear), Dursey Island, Heir Island, Sherkin Island, Long Island, Whiddy Island
Mayo:
- Clare Island, Inishturk, Inis Bigil, Claggan Island, Clynish, Inishlyre, Islandmore
Sligo:
- Coney Island, Dernish Island
Kerry:
- Fenit Island
Limerick:
- Foynes Island
Dublin:
- Lambay Island
These islands often have fewer transport options and higher living expenses, which is why this bonus can be a big help.
How Much Money Can You Get?
The weekly increase is €20. That equals €1,040 for the full year. The money is added to your normal weekly social welfare payment.
This extra support can help pay for fuel, food, or travel to the mainland.
Do You Need to Apply?
There is no special application for the island increase. Here’s how it works:
- If you’re applying for social welfare and live on an eligible island, include your island address.
- If you already get a qualifying payment and turn 66, the increase is added automatically.
- If you move to an island later, inform the Department of Social Protection so they can update your payment.
If you think you qualify but don’t see the bonus, contact your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Office.
Why This Support Matters
Island living in Ireland is beautiful but costly. Things like heating, groceries, and transport are often more expensive than on the mainland. This €1,040 bonus helps ease that pressure, especially for older people and carers who rely on fixed incomes.
This support doesn’t just help individuals—it also helps island communities. With more spending power, residents can support local shops and services, which keeps the island economy alive.
If you or someone you know lives on one of these islands and receives social welfare, this payment could make life a bit easier in 2025.