If you were selected, payments are backdated to September 2026. You must fill in surveys throughout, or you lose your place.
Quick facts
- Payment
- €325 a week (€1,413.21 a month)
- Places
- 2,000
- Runs
- 2026 to 2029
- Selection
- Random, among eligible
- Applications
- Closed 12 May 2026
- Tax
- Taxable, Class S PRSI
What it is
"It gives a payment of €325 a week to artists and creative arts workers, to help with the financial instability faced by many working in the arts." "The BIA grant is €325 a week, and successful applicants will get this monthly at a rate of €1,413.21."
"The scheme is available to 2,000 applicants who meet the eligibility criteria." "If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will be included in an anonymous random selection process."
Who could apply
Artists with a professional practice based mainly in Ireland, or recent graduates of a Level 8 practice-based course in 2024 or 2025, living in Ireland. "Applications closed on 12 May 2026".
"You can only get BIA payment for 3 years out of any 6-year cycle." So 2026 recipients can next apply for the 2034 round.
Tax, welfare and surveys
"You need to register with Revenue as self-employed and pay Schedule D income tax, where appropriate, on the BIA payment. Income from the scheme will be liable for Class S PRSI."
"Income from the scheme is treated as income from self-employment for the purpose of various means tests." Tell the Department of Social Protection if you also get a welfare payment. "If you fail to provide survey data, you will be removed from the scheme."
Common questions
How much is the Basic Income for the Arts?
€325 a week, paid monthly at €1,413.21, for 3 years from 2026 to 2029.
How many artists get the Basic Income for the Arts?
2,000, chosen by anonymous random selection from eligible applicants.
Is the Basic Income for the Arts still open?
No. Applications for the 2026 to 2029 scheme closed on 12 May 2026.
Is the arts basic income taxable?
Yes. You register as self-employed, pay income tax where due, and Class S PRSI.