StrokeLINK

Financial difficulties

  • Megan Campbell, Medical Social Worker
  • 5 minute read
  • Last updated: September 2023
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Many people experience financial difficulties after a stroke. If you were working, you may need time off work or not be in a position to return to work. A family member or your care partner may need to reduce their work hours to provide care to you. You may have also extra costs for medication or equipment. 

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Debt and money management

Financial support

If you are having trouble paying bills and are in debt, it is important that you try to address this as soon as possible. The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is a free and confidential service for people with money management and debt problems. MABS offers support online, over the phone or in person. It can help you to explore options specific to your situation. MABS can also help you to manage your money and stay on top of your bills. 

MABS also runs “Abhaile”, a free mortgage arrears support service. Abhaile provides financial, legal and insolvency advice. A dedicated adviser will work with you and your lender to find the best solution for your situation.

Housing

If you are having difficulties paying your rent, there are a number of different services that you can contact for advice and support. It is recommended that you talk to your landlord as soon as possible to explain your situation and agree on a repayment plan.

MABS can offer support if you need help with your repayment plan or if you are having problems paying your rent.

Threshold

If you are concerned about your rent payments or the possibility of eviction, you can contact Threshold. Threshold is a free service that works with renters who are experiencing housing difficulties or who are at risk of eviction. It can provide you with advice on whether your landlord is acting legally and can also advocate on your behalf.

Residential Tenancy Board

The Residential Tenancy Board (RTB) is a public body that regulates the rental sector. It provides information to both tenants and landlords and helps with solving disputes. The RTB offers a dispute resolution service for tenants and landlords and has the power to investigate landlords who engage in certain breaches of rental law.

Housing assistance payment (HAP)

If you are privately renting, you may qualify for the housing assistance payment (HAP). In order to apply for HAP, you must be on the local authority’s housing list, meaning you qualify for social housing support.

Health expenses

You may qualify for a medical card or a GP visit card which entitles you to free GP services, community services and prescription drugs and medicine. This is a means-tested payment.

If you don’t qualify for a medical card, you can apply for the Drugs Payment Scheme. Under this scheme, you and your family only have to pay a maximum of €80 each month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines.  

Other information

Top tips

 

You are not alone

"Just as each person’s stroke affects them differently, each person’s financial situation is different. There are many support services out there that can help you with a range of financial concerns. Ask your social worker or Citizens Information about the right service for you."

Megan Campbell | Medical Social Worker |

Be proactive

"It is important to recognise and deal with financial difficulties as soon as they come up. This will give you the time you need to engage with the services that can support you."

Megan Campbell | Medical Social Worker |

A social worker can help

"If you are in hospital and have concerns or queries about your finances, ask to speak with a social worker. They will be able to offer advice and assistance."

Megan Campbell | Medical Social Worker |

Frequently asked questions

Useful links

Citizens Information

MABS | The Money Advice and Budgeting Service

Threshold

RTB | Residential Tenancy Board

Related pages

Social welfare supports Medical cards Home modifications