€108m for Help to Buy Scheme users in Meath

More than 5,268 prospective first-time house buyers in Co Meath have claimed close to €108.7m under the Help to Buy scheme. Revenue figures show the average claim amount near €20,600.

The Help to Buy scheme is intended to assist first-time purchasers with the deposit needed to buy or build a new house or apartment. The incentive gives a refund on income tax and Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) paid over the previous four years, subject to limits.

In order to avail of the benefit, the loan-to-value ratio (LTV) for a property must be 70 per cent or more.

First announced in Budget 2017, the scheme was amended and extended in Budget 2024 to enhance its interaction with the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme (LAAP).

The scheme has been extended to 31st December, 2025.