Suspected social welfare fraud payments hit €29m in 2025, new figures reveal

New figures show the value of suspected social welfare overpayments increased significantly despite a drop in cases

The figures were provided by social protection minister Dara Calleary in response to a parliamentary question from Independent Ireland TD for Cork North-Central Ken O’Flynn. Picture: PA

People suspected of social welfare fraud received €29m in payments last year alone, new figures have revealed.

While the number of suspected fraud cases fell compared to 2024, the value of the overpayments increased by nearly €5m within 12 months.