self-employed
The Department has a range of benefits available to people who are self-employed.
Pay Related Social Insurance
This section explains Social Insurance and who it covers.
It outlines:
• the Pay-Related Social Insurance (PRSI) contributions payable by employees, employers and self-employed people
• Credited Contributions ('credits')
• Voluntary Contributions
Self-Employed Contributions
Self-Employed Contributions Operational Guidelines
This scheme is for employers who create new jobs by exempting them from liability to pay their share of PRSI contributions.
Benefits Abroad
Social Insurance & EC Regulations
Bilateral Social Insurance Agreements with Other EU Countries
Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (Self Employed)
If you are getting certain social welfare payments and you would like to become self-employed, the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance lets you keep a portion of your social welfare payment for 2 years
Short-term Enterprise Allowance
If you are getting Jobseekers Benefit and you would like to start a business you may qualify for the Short Term Enterprise Scheme. It allows you to avail of a self employment opportunity and retain your Jobseekers Benefit. It will end when your entitlement to Jobseeker's Benefit ends (that is, at either 9 months or 12 months).