What is the rent tax credit in Ireland for 2024 and how do I claim it?

Ireland introduced a rent tax credit in 2022 to help renters with the cost of private rental accommodation. For 2024, the credit is €750 per person per year (increased from €500 in earlier years), or €1,500 for a couple jointly assessed. It directly reduces your income tax bill, not just your taxable income.

The credit is available to private renters paying rent to a landlord for their main residence, student renters paying rent for accommodation used while attending a qualifying college, and parents paying rent for a student's qualifying accommodation. You cannot claim the credit if you are renting from a local authority or housing body, or if the property is an AirBnb-type arrangement.

To claim, PAYE workers use myAccount on revenue.ie. You enter the landlord's PPSN and the amount of rent paid. Revenue will verify the information against landlord records; landlords are required to register all tenancies with the RTB (Residential Tenancies Board).

The credit is capped at the amount of income tax actually due. If you owe no income tax, you cannot claim a refund of the credit. It cannot be used to offset USC or PRSI.