Who is it available to?

• Employees who have lost their jobs, and
• Self-employed individuals who have had to cease trading, due to the crisis.  

Such individuals will receive an enhanced emergency COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment of €350 per week (an increase from €203).

If an individual had applied before 24^th March, or is already in receipt of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, he/she does not need to do anything. The next payment will be paid at the increased rate.

They should apply for the benefit to the Department of Social Protection.

The payment also applies to;

• non EU/EEA workers who have lost employment due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic
• students (and non-EU/EEA students) who have lost employment due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic
• part-time workers

Useful links

COVID-19: Wage Subsidy Scheme – FAQs for Employers

Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme Employer Eligibility and Supporting Proofs

COVID-19 wage subsidy

COVID 19: Enhanced Illness Benefit Payment

Revenue Measures to Support SMEs