Help in a crisis
When something goes badly wrong, the help exists, but it's spread across councils, Intreo, the HSE and charities. Here it is in one place: who to ring first, and what you can claim.
Last reviewed: 1 October 2026 · Verified against official sources
Who to ring
- In danger right now 112 or 999
- Samaritans, any time, free 116 123
- Text About It, any time Text HELLO to 50808
- Women's Aid, 24 hours 1800 341 900
- Male Advice Line 1800 816 588
- Nowhere to sleep tonight, Dublin 1800 707 707
- Debt or a repossession letter (MABS) 0818 07 2000
- Community Welfare Service 0818 60 70 80
Outside Dublin, contact your own council's homeless service. The Dublin freephone runs 10am to 10pm.
No money for something essential
The fastest money in the system is decided locally, by a Community Welfare Officer at your Intreo office.
Nowhere to live, or about to lose your home
Your local council has the legal duty to help if you're homeless. Staying on a friend's sofa because you have nowhere else can count.
Behind on the mortgage, bills or loans
Ring MABS before you agree anything with a lender. It's free, and it's on your side.
Abuse or violence at home
If you're in danger, ring 112 or 999. Women's Aid and the Male Advice Line are free and confidential.
Someone has died
Several payments only start if you claim them. A Citizens Information Centre can go through them with you.
Lost your job
Claim the first day you're out of work. One application covers every jobseeker's payment.
Refused, or need a lawyer
A refusal isn't the end. Many appeals succeed, and free legal help exists.
Once the emergency has passed
Answer a few quick questions and our free checker shows the weekly payments you could claim. 60 seconds, no sign-up.
Check What You’re Owed →Common questions
Where can I get emergency money in Ireland today?
Who do I contact if I'm homeless tonight?
Who can help if I can't pay my debts?
Who can I talk to if I'm not coping?
General information, not financial or legal advice. Rules and amounts change, so confirm the current details on the official source (Citizens Information, gov.ie or the HSE) before you claim.
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