Help to Buy Scheme Ireland 2025
A refund of income tax and DIRT paid over 4 years — up to €30,000 toward your deposit on a new home.
How Help to Buy works
The Help to Buy incentive is a Revenue scheme that refunds income tax and DIRT (Deposit Interest Retention Tax) you've paid in Ireland over the previous four tax years. The refund goes directly toward the deposit on a new-build home.
Example: If you earned €60,000/year and paid €12,000 in income tax per year over 4 years, you've paid €48,000 in total tax. If you're buying a €350,000 home, your HTB refund would be €30,000 (the cap) — not €35,000 (10% of price) because €30,000 is the maximum.
The refund is paid directly to the developer on your behalf — you never handle the cash. It counts as part of your deposit, so it reduces how much savings you need upfront.
Who qualifies?
Common questions
How much can I get from Help to Buy?
The maximum refund is the lower of: 10% of the purchase price, €30,000, or the income tax and DIRT you paid in the last 4 years. For example, on a €350,000 home the maximum is €30,000 (10% would be €35,000 but it's capped at €30,000).
Does Help to Buy apply to second-hand homes?
No. Help to Buy only applies to new-build homes and self-builds. It does not apply to second-hand properties.
Can I use Help to Buy with the First Home Scheme?
Yes — and this is very powerful. HTB boosts your cash deposit, and the First Home Scheme can then fill the remaining gap. Combined, the schemes can fund up to 40% of a home's value.
What is the property price limit?
The property must be priced at €500,000 or less to qualify for Help to Buy.
How do I apply for Help to Buy?
You apply through Revenue Online Service (ROS) or myAccount. You'll need to be PAYE-registered or self-assessed and have filed your tax returns for the relevant years.
How long does it take to get the refund?
Once approved, the refund is paid directly to the developer (for new builds) or to your solicitor. It typically takes 2–4 weeks after approval.
See your estimated HTB refund
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