Description
How To Apply For Wig Grants in Ireland -
Hairspray are approved Vendors for both the HSE & PRSI. We can carry out all the paperwork for you,
Hair Grants in Ireland:
How to Claim Up to €770 for Your Wig or Hair Replacement
Hair loss can be an emotional and challenging experience, whether it's caused by cancer treatment, alopecia, or another medical condition. The good news is that financial support is available in Ireland to help reduce the cost of wigs, hairpieces, and other non-surgical hair replacement products.
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for either:
A PRSI Hair Replacement Benefit of up to €500 per year, or
An HSE Hair Replacement Grant of up to €770 per year for people experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment.
This guide explains who qualifies, how each scheme works, and how to apply.
PRSI Hair Replacement Benefit – Up to €500
The Department of Social Protection's Treatment Benefit Scheme offers eligible people a grant of up to €500 once per calendar year towards the cost of a non-surgical hair replacement product, including wigs and hairpieces.
Who can qualify?
You may be eligible if:
You have sufficient PRSI contributions.
You are an employed, self-employed, or retired worker who qualifies under the Treatment Benefit Scheme.
Your hair loss is due to an eligible medical condition or treatment.
Eligible hair loss conditions include:
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Totalis
Alopecia Universalis
Diffuse Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Ophiasis
Primary Scarring Alopecias
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia
Lichen Planopilaris
Hair loss caused by burns, surgery or trauma
Hair loss resulting from cancer treatment and certain other medical conditions.
How to apply
The process is straightforward:
Visit your GP or specialist for a medical diagnosis.
Choose a registered hair replacement provider.
Your provider can verify your PRSI eligibility and help submit the claim.
Once approved, the grant is paid towards the cost of your hair replacement product.
HSE Hair Replacement Grant – Up to €770
If your hair loss is caused by cancer treatment, the HSE provides a separate grant of up to €770 per year towards the cost of a wig or hairpiece. Importantly, you do not need a medical card to receive this allowance.
Who is eligible?
You may qualify if:
Your hair loss is directly related to chemotherapy or another cancer treatment.
Your GP, consultant or oncology team provides a prescription or confirmation letter recommending a hair replacement product.
How the HSE grant works
After receiving your prescription:
Book a fitting with an approved hair replacement supplier.
Bring your prescription or medical letter to your appointment.
Either you or your supplier submits the invoice and prescription to the HSE.
Once approved, the HSE pays up to €770 towards the cost of your chosen wig or hairpiece.
If your chosen product costs more than the grant amount, you simply pay the difference.
Can You Claim Both?
In some situations, individuals may be eligible under different schemes depending on their diagnosis and circumstances. However, eligibility rules vary, and it is best to speak with your hair replacement provider or healthcare team to determine which support applies to you.
Why Professional Hair Replacement Matters
A medical wig or professionally fitted hairpiece is designed to provide comfort, confidence and a natural appearance. Modern hair replacement solutions are lightweight, breathable and available in a wide range of colours, lengths and styles.
An experienced specialist can help you:
Eligible applicants can receive up to €500 per calendar year through the Department of Social Protection's Treatment Benefit Scheme.
How much is the HSE Hair Replacement Grant?
The HSE provides up to €770 per year for hair loss caused by cancer treatment.
Do I need a medical card?
For the HSE cancer treatment allowance, a medical card is not required. PRSI eligibility depends on your social insurance contributions rather than a medical card.
Can my salon or wig supplier help with the paperwork?
Many registered hair replacement providers can guide you through the application process and submit the required documentation on your behalf, making the experience much easier.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss can affect confidence and emotional wellbeing, but financial support is available to make high-quality hair replacement more affordable.
Whether you qualify for the €500 PRSI Hair Replacement Benefit or the HSE grant of up to €770, it's worth checking your eligibility and speaking with an approved provider who can guide you through the process.
With the right support, you can access a professional hair replacement solution that helps you feel like yourself again.