Benefits and Tax Credits
This page provides an overview of financial supports, allowances and tax reliefs that may be available to children with obstetric brachial plexus injuries, including Erb’s palsy, and to their families. Entitlements depend on a child’s needs and the level of care required, rather than on diagnosis alone. The information below is intended as practical guidance to help families understand what may be available and how to begin the application process.
Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA)
Domiciliary Care Allowance is a monthly payment for a child under 16 who has a disability that requires ongoing care and attention substantially above that required by a child of the same age. The allowance is not means‑tested and is based on care needs rather than diagnosis.
Families may wish to consider applying where a child requires regular physiotherapy, specialist follow‑up, assistance with daily activities, or close supervision because of functional limitations.
Applications are made to the Department of Social Protection, either online through MyWelfare or by paper form. A medical report completed by the child’s GP or consultant is required, along with any relevant reports from physiotherapists or specialists. The decision is made based on written information, so clear descriptions of the additional care your child needs are important.
Further information and application forms are available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/services/domiciliary-care-allowance/ https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/disability-and-illness/domiciliary-care-allowance/
Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Support Grant
Where a parent or guardian provides full‑time care to a child in receipt of Domiciliary Care Allowance, they may also qualify for Carer’s Allowance. This is a means‑tested weekly payment and is assessed based on household income and assets. Parents can work or study up to a limited number of hours per week while receiving the allowance.
Families in receipt of Carer’s Allowance are also entitled to the annual Carer’s Support Grant, which is paid automatically.
Further information is available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/services/carers-allowance/ https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/carers/carers-allowance/
Disability Allowance (from age 16)
When a child reaches 16, Domiciliary Care Allowance ends and a young person may instead be eligible for Disability Allowance. This is a weekly payment for people whose disability substantially restricts their ability to work. It is means‑tested and assessed on the young person’s own income and resources, not those of their parents.
Applications can be made before a child turns 16 to help ensure continuity of support. A medical report is required as part of the application.
Further information is available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-social-protection/services/disability-allowance/ https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social-welfare/disability-and-illness/disability-allowance/
Incapacitated Child Tax Credit
The Incapacitated Child Tax Credit is a tax credit available to parents or guardians of a child who is permanently incapacitated, physically or mentally, and who is unlikely to be able to support themselves as an adult. Eligibility depends on the long‑term impact of the condition rather than its label.
A medical certificate completed by a consultant or doctor is required. Claims can be made through Revenue’s myAccount service or by submitting the relevant paper forms.
Further information and forms are available at: https://www.revenue.ie/en/personal-tax-credits-reliefs-and-exemptions/children/incapacitated-child-credit/index.aspx https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/money-and-tax/tax/tax-credits-and-reliefs-for-people-with-disabilities/incapacitated-child-tax-credit/
Other tax reliefs and supports
Depending on individual circumstances, families may also qualify for additional supports, including tax relief on medical expenses, VAT refunds on certain aids and appliances, the Home Carer Tax Credit, and access to medical cards or GP visit cards. These supports can help with the ongoing costs associated with therapy, treatment and care.
Comprehensive and up‑to‑date guidance is available from Citizens Information:
Practical tips when applying
Many families find the application process demanding. It can be helpful to gather reports from your child’s GP, consultant and physiotherapist, keep a brief diary of care needs and appointments, and describe the impact of the condition on daily life rather than focusing solely on medical terminology. If an application is refused, there is a right of review or appeal, and families are often successful on reconsideration with additional information.
Getting further help
Citizens Information Centres can provide free, confidential advice and assistance with applications. Erb’s Palsy Ireland can also support families by signposting relevant entitlements and sharing practical experience from other parents.
Entitlements and criteria can change over time, so
