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Help to Buy (HTB) scheme

  1. Overview
  2. Who can claim HTB?
  3. What is a qualifying property?
  4. How much can you claim?
  5. What do you need to do before you apply?
  6. How do you apply for HTB?
  7. Information for applicants, lending institutions, solicitors and contractors
  8. Can Revenue claw back a refund?

How much can you claim?

An enhanced HTB scheme was introduced in 2020 as part of the Government's July Jobs Stimulus Plan.

You are eligible for increased relief under the enhanced HTB scheme if, during the period from 23 July 2020 to 31 December 2025, you:

  • sign a contract for the purchase of a qualifying property
  • or
  • make the first draw down of the mortgage, in the case of a self-build qualifying property.

The original HTB scheme applies from 1 January 2017 to 22 July 2020.

Amount of relief under the enhanced HTB scheme

The amount that you can claim is the lesser of:

  • €30,000
  • 10% of the purchase value of a new home or of the approved valuation of the property, in the case of self-builds
  • or
  • the amount of Income Tax and Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) you have paid for the four years prior to your application.

The maximum payment is €30,000 per qualifying property under the enhanced relief. This cap applies regardless of how many people enter into a contract to purchase the qualifying property.

Universal Social Charge (USC) or Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) are not taken into account when calculating how much you can claim.

There is more information in Help to Buy (HTB) and the Summary Guide for Help to Buy Applicants.

Amount of relief under the original HTB scheme

The amount that you can claim is the lesser of:

  • €20,000
  • 5% of the purchase value or approved valuation
  • or
  • the amount of Income Tax and DIRT you have paid for the four years prior to when you make your application.

The maximum payment is €20,000. This cap applies regardless of how many people enter a contract to purchase the qualifying property.

USC or PRSI are not taken into account when calculating how much you can claim.

How will the refund be paid?

If you purchase a qualifying property, the refund will be paid to your qualifying contractor.

If you self-build the qualifying property, the refund will be paid to a bank account you hold with your mortgage provider.

Next: What do you need to do before you apply?

Published: 13 January 2023 Print this page

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