If you are buying jointly and are not both FTBs then you are jointly not classed as FTBs. It may be possible to avail of FTB status by having your sole name on the deeds and one or both on the mortgage but I'm not sure if this is legitimate and/or if there are other pitfalls/risks involved. For a married couple the obvious issue of the spouse not named on the deeds may not be a risk for that individual (as it would be with an unmarried couple) due to statutory rights in relation to joint ownership of the family home etc. However somebody else may be able to comment and your solicitor may be able to advise too.