Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit: What You Need to Know
Launching March 31, 2025, Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit is a new social welfare payment designed to provide support based on your previous earnings. Here’s everything you need to know.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, you must meet three PRSI conditions:
- At least 104 PRSI contributions (Class A, H, or P) paid in your working life.
- At least 4 PRSI contributions (Class A or H) paid in the 10 weeks before applying.
- At least 26 PRSI contributions (Class A or H) paid in the 52 weeks before your first day of unemployment.
If you were receiving Maternity Benefit, Illness Benefit, or other similar payments before losing your job, alternative conditions may apply. More details will be provided closer to the launch date.
How Much Will You Get?
Your payment is based on your previous income and the number of PRSI contributions you have. The payment structure is as follows:
For Those with 5+ Years of PRSI Contributions:
- First 3 months: 60% of previous earnings, up to a maximum of €450 per week.
- Next 3 months: 55% of previous earnings, up to a maximum of €375 per week.
- Final 3 months: 50% of previous earnings, up to a maximum of €300 per week.
For Those with 2-5 Years of PRSI Contributions:
- Flat rate: 50% of previous earnings, up to a maximum of €300 per week.
- Duration: Paid for 6 months.
Minimum Payment:
- Regardless of earnings, the lowest possible payment will be €125 per week.
How to Apply?
Application details will be released before the March 31, 2025 launch date. Until then, unemployed individuals can continue to apply for the existing Jobseeker’s Benefit.
If you are already receiving Jobseeker’s Benefit when the new scheme starts, you will remain on your current payment until it expires or you return to work.
Final Thoughts
This new system is designed to provide a more income-based approach to jobseeker support, offering higher payments initially to help those transitioning between jobs. Keep an eye out for more details on how to apply!
#JobseekersBenefit #PRSI #WelfareChanges #Ireland
Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit
