Release equity from your home with a Lifetime Loan

Our free broker service provides guidance to over 60s seeking a lifetime loan

4.7/5
4.8/5

What is the approximate value of your home?

The property secured against your loan must be your main residence, be of standard construction, and be located within the Republic of Ireland. It must be worth at least €250,000.00 in Dublin or €175,000.00 outside of Dublin.

Bonkers Money Limited, trading as bonkers, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Our partner

Apply for a lifetime loan from our partner, Spry Finance, on bonkers.ie to release equity from your home.

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How to get a lifetime loan

bonkers.ie makes it easy to apply for a lifetime loan in Ireland.

Tell us yor home’s value

Tell us about you

Apply with our in-house experts

What you need to get started

Aged 60 years or older

Home’s BER and address

Home’s BER and address

We're trusted by over a million Irish households every year

bonkers.ie is free

Applying for a lifetime loan on bonkers.ie is completely free. When you switch with us, we receive a commission from the provider.

bonkers.ie is always 100% impartial, so these agreements don’t affect the results or information you see.

We're regulated

Bonkers Money Limited, trading as bonkers.ie, is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. This has been the case since 2016.

This reflects our continued commitment to providing impartial and accurate financial advice, information and services.


4.7 out of 5(7263) reviews
4.8 out of 5(494) reviews

Things to consider

Lifetime loans can be a great way to gain access to some value tied up in your home. However, it is a big commitment so here are some things to consider.
Inheritance
Releasing equity from your home will reduce the value of your estate.
Consider how this will impact the inheritance you plan to leave behind.
Welfare eligibility
Equity release may impact your eligibility for means-tested benefits.
It's crucial to understand how this could affect your financial situation.
Commitment
A lifetime loan is a long-term commitment.
Make sure you're comfortable with the terms and understand the potential implications for your future.
BER of home
A building energy rating (BER) of B3 or above can qualify you for a green lifetime loan.
This is offered at a lower interest rate and set up fee, at 6.25% and €1,350 respectively.

EXPERT TIP

Makes for a flexible retirement

In my opinion, lifetime loans can be a great option for people who have equity in their home but want to stay put. This is because they allow the release of tax-free cash while retaining full home ownership. This makes for an enjoyable and flexible retirement.

However, it is crucial to be aware that the debt and interest will reduce the value of the potential inheritance left to your beneficiaries, so be sure to understand the loan terms before making a decision.

Daragh Cassidy

Consumer Expert at

As featured on

Your questions, answered

What is the maximum age for a lifetime loan?

Lifetime loans are generally available to individuals aged 60 and above, but each lender may set different maximum age limits. Some are strict, while others are more accommodating. On bonkers.ie, we work with Spry Finance where there is no maximum age.

How much can you borrow with equity release?

The amount you can borrow with equity release depends on your age, property value, and each lender’s criteria. Generally, older applicants can unlock a higher proportion of their home’s value. Property assessments and lender policies both influence available amounts, so speak to our in-house experts for guidance.

Are lifetime loans a good idea?

Lifetime loans may be appropriate for homeowners needing extra funds while staying in their property, especially those with limited income but substantial equity. They can support retirement or other needs, but they also come with drawbacks such as growing interest and decreased inheritance.

What are the disadvantages of equity release?

The main disadvantages include the accumulation of interest, reduction in inheritance, and potential impact on social welfare eligibility. It's important to fully understand these factors before proceeding with a lifetime loan. Our in-house experts are always on hand to provide guidance without charge.

Our customers rate us4.7 out of 5 stars!

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Good service

Easy to navigate and quick

Mr michael hunter

- 1 day ago

Excellent

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