In short
- Disability Allowance (DA) is a weekly payment for people aged 16 to 66 with a disability expected to last at least a year.
- A diagnosis of ADHD alone does not guarantee DA. It depends on how much your condition limits your ability to work and your income.
- There is a medical assessment and a means test. You apply with form DA1.
What is Disability Allowance?
Disability Allowance is a weekly social welfare payment from the Department of Social Protection. It is for people whose disability has lasted, or is expected to last, at least one year and substantially limits the work they could otherwise do for someone of their age, experience and qualifications.
Can you get it for ADHD?
DA is not given for a particular diagnosis. Instead, a medical assessor looks at how your condition affects you. Some adults with ADHD, especially where it is severe or occurs alongside other conditions, do qualify. Others with ADHD work full time and would not. What matters is the impact on your daily life and your ability to work.
Who is eligible?
- Aged between 16 and 66
- A condition expected to last at least a year
- Substantially restricted in the work you can do because of it
- Pass a means test, which looks at your income and some of your partner’s income
- Live in Ireland and meet the habitual residence condition
How much is it?
The maximum personal rate of Disability Allowance in 2026 is €254 per week, with increases possible for a partner and children. The amount you get depends on your means. Rates change in each Budget, so check the current figures with the Department of Social Protection.
Can you work and get DA?
Yes, in some cases. You can earn up to €165 a week from approved work without it affecting your payment, and earnings above that may reduce it. You need to tell the Department before you start work.
How to apply
- Get form DA1 from gov.ie, your Intreo centre or apply on MyWelfare
- Ask your GP or treating doctor to complete the medical section
- Include any reports that show how ADHD affects you, such as your diagnostic report and psychiatrist letters
- Send the form with proof of identity, income and address
Explain your day to day difficulties in plain, specific examples. If you are refused, you can ask for a review or appeal.
Other supports
- Medical card: you may qualify depending on your income
- Drugs Payment Scheme: a cap of €80 a month on prescribed medicines
- Tax relief on health expenses
- Supports from your local Intreo office to help you find or stay in work
This guide is general information. For advice on your own situation, contact Citizens Information or the Department of Social Protection.
Sources: Department of Social Protection; Citizens Information, Disability Allowance; MyWelfare.
This guide is general information to help you understand your options. It is not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules and benefits can change, so please check with the organisation concerned. If you are in crisis, call 112 or 999, or contact Samaritans free on 116 123.