New €1,800 social welfare payment set to launch in March for eligible job seekers
A new €1,800 social welfare payment will start on March 31, 2025, for those who become fully unemployed after that date. The Pay-Related Job Seeker's Benefit will offer three payment rates based on prior income and PRSI contributions. Eligible individuals must have a minimum of 104 PRSI contributions, with specific requirements for contributions in the weeks leading up to their unemployment. The payment aims to provide better support for those with a strong work history. The existing Jobseeker's Benefit will continue for those not qualifying for the new benefit. The new payment will not be backdated and is only for future unemployment cases.