Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 November 2025
152. Deputy Eoin Hayes asked the Minister for Social Protection his position on the process for self-employed people to gain access to jobseeker's allowance or benefit when their income declines or halts for extended periods of time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62249/25]
View answerJobseeker's Benefit (Self-Employed) is a payment for self-employed people who have ceased self-employment and have paid enough Pay-Related Social Insurance contributions. To be eligible for the payment a person must satisfy the statutory conditions of the scheme including being capable of work and available for full-time work, be genuinely seeking work and prove unemployment in the prescribed manner. Jobseeker's Benefit for the Self-Employed is paid for up to six or nine months depending on the number of Pay-Related Social Insurance contributions made.
Where a self-employed person is operating their business at reduced levels such that their income has declined they may receive support under the means-tested Jobseeker's Allowance.
If the deputy has a particular case, he should advise the person concerned to engage with the Department to assess the circumstances and the appropriate support.
