[2] Linfield were the defending champions, after defeating Crusaders 4–1 in the 2012 final to win the cup for the sixth time in seven seasons.

[3] However, in a tie that was a repeat of the previous two finals, they were knocked out in the fifth round by Crusaders, who inflicted Linfield's first defeat in the competition in four years.

The eventual winners were Glentoran, coming from a goal behind to defeat Cliftonville 3–1 after extra time to win their first Irish Cup in nine years.

Newry City folded after the start of the season and, of the remaining 29 clubs, PSNI did not enter on time.

Source: irishfa.com 2Comber Recreation and Killyleagh Youth were both disqualified for fielding an ineligible player, their opponents were reinstated.

Oxford United Stars and Rathfriland Rangers both received a bye into the fourth round because of the demise of Championship club Newry City, and the failure of fellow Championship club PSNI to enter on time.

[10] Source: irishfa.com 3Drumaness Mills were disqualified for fielding an ineligible player, their opponents received a walkover.

The 12 clubs from the IFA Premiership entered the competition at this stage, along with the 20 winners from the fourth round matches.

Source: irishfa.com The quarter-final draw was made after the sixth round matches were played on 9 February.