Changes to Rent Supplement  Scheme
 
You will be aware that changes to the rent supplement scheme were announced in the recent supplementary budget.  These changes have significant implications for all landlords.
 
The Department of Social and Family Affairs has placed ads in the national media encouraging tenants to seek a rent reduction from their landlord. They are also writing to those receiving rent supplement advising them to seek a reduction in rent from their landlord.

 - These changes are due to take effect from 1 June 2009.
 - The maximum amount of rent for which a supplement can be paid is being reduced
 - The minimum contribution which a person pays towards rent is being increased by €6 to €24 a week.
 - Rent supplement payments are being further reduced by 8%
 
The revised rent limits will apply to new tenancies from 1 June 2009 and to existing rent supplement recipients either moving to new accommodation or seeking a review of entitlement from that date.
 
It is important that every landlord is aware of how these changes may effect them and the likely requests for further rent reductions from tenants.
 
Click here to read more about the changes 
 
 
Click here to see the new rent limits