The person doesn't have to be family: a friend counts. You can take it all at once or in blocks, and work up to 18.5 hours a week elsewhere while on it.
Quick facts
- Length
- 13 to 104 weeks
- Pay
- Unpaid (Carer's Benefit may pay)
- Service needed
- 12 months
- Notice
- 6 weeks
- Job
- Kept open
- Return notice
- 4 weeks
What you get
"You can take carer's leave for a minimum of 13 weeks and up to a maximum of 104 weeks." "Carer's leave from employment is unpaid but your job will be kept open until your return." "You can take carer's leave even if you do not qualify for these payments."
You keep your rights: you "Are entitled to annual leave and public holidays for the first 13 weeks of carer's leave Must not be dismissed for taking carer's leave".
Who can take it
"To get carer's leave, you must have worked for your employer for 12 months without a break in employment." The Department of Social Protection must confirm the person needs full-time care. "The person you care for does not have to be a family member or spouse, but can be a friend or colleague."
The rules
"If you do not take carer's leave in one continuous period, there must be a gap of at least 6 weeks between each period of carer's leave." "You can work for up to 18.5 hours a week in employment or self-employment while you are on carer's leave, as long as you earn less than €1,000 a week."
How to apply
Apply to the Department on form CARB1 (with Carer's Benefit) or CARLeave1 (leave only). "You must give your employer at least 6 weeks' notice that you plan to take carer's leave", in writing, and sign a confirmation document at least 2 weeks before.
"You must give your employer at least 4 weeks' notice in writing that you plan to return to work." If your employer won't resolve it, complain to the Workplace Relations Commission online, usually within 6 months. WRC information line: (059) 917 8990.
Common questions
How long is carer's leave in Ireland?
A minimum of 13 weeks and a maximum of 104 weeks per person cared for.
Is carer's leave paid?
No, it's unpaid, but you may get Carer's Benefit or Carer's Allowance while on it.
Who can I take carer's leave for?
Anyone who needs full-time care, including a friend or colleague, not just family.
How much notice do I need for carer's leave?
At least 6 weeks' written notice to your employer, and 4 weeks' notice before you return.
Can my employer sack me for taking carer's leave?
No. You must not be dismissed or victimised for taking it.