Succession planning advice grant: what farmers need to know
The Succession Planning Advice Grant is designed exclusively to support farmers in seeking professional advice about succession — not for implementing plans or transferring assets. This grant exists to help farmers access legal, tax, and advisory insights before making any decisions.
It is a valuable support scheme aimed at encouraging intergenerational land transfer by assisting older farmers in accessing professional guidance during the succession planning process. Designed to address generational imbalances in Irish farming, the grant supports farmers aged 60 years and over by reimbursing 50% of vouched legal, accounting, and advisory fees, up to a maximum of €1,500 (excluding VAT).
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Succession Planning Advice Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be aged 60 years or older
Farm a minimum of 3 hectares of land at the time of application
Have been actively farming for at least two years prior to applying (i.e. have submitted at least two BISS applications)
Be farming in their own name (not through a limited company)
Not currently be in a registered succession partnership
Eligible Costs and Payment Rate
Applicants may claim 50% of vouched legal, accounting, or advisory costs, up to a maximum payment of €1,500. Claims must be supported by valid invoices and proof of payment, and VAT is not included in the reimbursement.
When and How to Apply
Applications for the scheme are open year-round, but payments are issued in tranches, with each tranche paid in the first quarter of the following year. This structure will continue until the conclusion of the CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027.
Tranche 2 is now closed
Tranche 3: Applications open from 1st January 2025 to 30th November 2025
Payments for Tranche 3 will be made in the first quarter of 2026
Farmers are advised to prepare applications well in advance and ensure all required documentation is submitted in full to avoid delays in processing.
Required Documentation
Only fully completed applications will be accepted. The following documents must be submitted:
Completed application form and checklist
Proof of age and proof of address
Copies of all invoices being claimed
Proof of payment for each invoice
Applicants must also meet the eligibility criteria as set out in the scheme’s official Terms and Conditions.
Supporting the Future of Irish Farming
At ifac, we recognise the importance of forward planning in farm succession. The Succession Planning Advice Grant provides farmers with a practical incentive to seek expert guidance, helping to safeguard the future of their farms and ensure a smooth and tax-efficient transfer of assets to the next generation.
For assistance with your application or to discuss your succession planning needs, contact your local ifac office.
