Understanding Ireland's Fair Deal Scheme
The Fair Deal scheme helps Irish residents pay for nursing home care. Learn how it works, what you'll pay, and how to apply for government funding support.
What is the Fair Deal Scheme?
The Fair Deal Scheme (officially called the Nursing Homes Support Scheme) is Ireland's system for helping people pay for long-term nursing home care. If you need nursing home care, the government will help cover the costs - you don't have to pay the full amount yourself.
Key Benefits:
- • Government pays part of your nursing home costs
- • You can choose any approved nursing home
- • Optional loan available to avoid selling your home
- • Available to anyone who needs long-term care
How Much Will You Pay?
Your contribution depends on your income and assets. The HSE does a financial assessment to calculate your share, then pays the rest directly to the nursing home.
If You're Single
3-Year Cap: You'll only pay the property contribution for 3 years maximum.
If You're in a Couple
3-Year Cap: Maximum 11.25% of your home's value over 3 years.
Example Calculations
Example: Single Person
Mary's Situation:
- • Weekly income: €240
- • Home value: €200,000
- • No cash savings
- • Nursing home cost: €1,000/week
Mary Pays Per Week:
- • Income (80%): €192
- • Home (7.5% yearly): €237
- • Total: €429
- • HSE pays: €571
After 3 years, Mary only pays €192/week (just her income contribution).
Example: Married Couple
John & Patricia's Situation:
- • Combined weekly income: €800
- • Home value: €200,000
- • Cash savings: €100,000
- • Nursing home cost: €1,000/week
They Pay Per Week:
- • Income (40%): €320
- • Savings (3.75%): €20
- • Home (3.75%): €144
- • Total: €484
- • HSE pays: €516
Nursing Home Loan
Don't want to sell your home? The nursing home loan lets you defer paying the property portion of your contribution. The HSE pays it for you, and it's repaid when your home is eventually sold.
✓ Benefits of the Loan
- • Keep your home in the family
- • No monthly property payments
- • Can be repaid at any time
- • Only paid when home is sold
! Important to Know
- • It's optional - your choice
- • Only covers property contribution
- • Still pay income & cash assets
- • Interest may apply
How to Apply
Get Assessment
A healthcare professional assesses if you need nursing home care.
Submit Application
Complete forms with financial documents and submit to HSE.
Choose Home
Pick from approved nursing homes and start receiving funding.
Documents You'll Need:
- Bank statements (6 months)
- Pension statements
- Social welfare documentation
- Property deeds/valuation
- Investment statements
- Medical assessment report
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Fair Deal?
Anyone ordinarily resident in Ireland for at least one year who needs long-term nursing home care. There are no age restrictions.
Can I choose any nursing home?
Yes, you can choose any HSE-approved nursing home that can meet your care needs and has availability.
What if I can't afford my contribution?
You may be eligible for the nursing home loan to defer property-related payments. Contact your local Nursing Homes Support Office for advice.
How long does the application take?
Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks once all required documentation is submitted. You may need to pay privately while waiting.
Can Fair Deal be backdated?
No, Fair Deal funding cannot be backdated. It only starts from the date of approval, so apply as early as possible.
Ready to Find the Right Nursing Home?
Browse approved nursing homes across Ireland and start your Fair Deal application today.
Official Government Information
For complete official details and application forms, visit the HSE website:
HSE Fair Deal Scheme