Help‑to‑Buy Scheme 2025 – A Simple 5‑Step Checklist

A practical Help-to-Buy 2025 checklist for first-time buyers: confirm eligibility, prepare Revenue documents, apply on Revenue.ie, reserve with a registered developer, and draw down at completion...

Residential
Help‑to‑Buy Scheme 2025 – A Simple 5‑Step Checklist

Help‑to‑Buy Scheme 2025 – A Simple 5‑Step Checklist

Ireland’s Help‑to‑Buy (HTB) scheme refunds a portion of income tax and Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) paid over the previous four years—providing eligible first‑time buyers with up to €30,000, or 10% of the property price, towards their deposit. Below is a straightforward five‑step checklist to navigate the 2025 process and avoid common delays.

1  Confirm You Qualify

Before you start an application, ensure you meet the baseline conditions:

  • You are a first‑time buyer purchasing or self‑building a new home priced €500,000 or less.
  • You will live in the property as your principal private residence for at least five years.
  • You have a mortgage covering at least 70% of the purchase price.
  • Your tax affairs are fully up‑to‑date (PPSN linked to myAccount or ROS).

Review the full qualifications for the Help to Buy Scheme →

2  Gather Revenue Documents

You will need:

  • Tax clearance for the four preceding tax years (check PAYE balance on myAccount or ROS).
  • Mortgage Approval in Principle letter.
  • Property details (Eircode, price, expected completion date).

Tip: clear any PAYE underpayments before applying—Revenue will not process an HTB claim until outstanding liabilities are settled.

3  Submit an Application on Revenue.ie

Log in to myAccount > Property > Help to Buy. Complete the online form, upload documentation and note the Application Number and Access Code. These identifiers must match the details your solicitor and Castlethorn will enter at contract stage.

(Processing times average 3–5 working days; allow extra during peak periods such as Budget roll‑out weeks.)

4  Reserve Your Home with an HTB‑Approved Developer

Once you choose a unit—such as an A‑rated home at Usher’s Mill—confirm the developer is registered with Revenue for HTB. Pay the booking deposit and sign contracts within the timeframe specified (typically 21 days after legal packs are issued). Your solicitor will submit the Claim stage on Revenue.ie, citing the Application Number, Access Code and contract details.

Related reading: Usher’s Mill Phase 2 Launch – Design & Sustainability Highlights

5  Draw Down Funds at Completion

Revenue issues the refund directly to your mortgage lender (or to you, for self‑builds). Your lender applies the amount to your deposit on drawdown day. Ensure:

  • The property closes within two years of the HTB application.
  • Any contract amendments are updated in Revenue’s system.

After completion, retain all HTB correspondence for at least six years—Revenue may audit claims and claw back the refund if residency conditions are breached.

Key Dates for 2025 Buyers

  • Apply for HTB: Submit any time after you receive mortgage Approval in Principle; Revenue approval typically takes 3–5 working days.
  • Contracts issued: Expect legal packs within 1–2 weeks of booking (developer-specific).
  • Refund drawdown: The HTB refund is applied on closing day once your solicitor confirms completion.
  • Scheme end date: The Help-to-Buy scheme currently runs until 31 December 2029 (extended in Budget 2025).

(Timelines may vary; always confirm exact dates with your solicitor and lender.)

Next Steps

  • Use Revenue’s HTB Calculator to estimate your refund.
  • Explore First Home Scheme options if your deposit gap remains after HTB.

Disclaimer

Information correct as of June 2025 - This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult your solicitor, mortgage adviser or Revenue guidance for personalised requirements.

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