Part-time workers may not realise that they can claim an additional payment on top of their wages, provided they meet certain criteria.
The Part-Time Job Incentive Scheme is designed to allow those receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance (JA) to take up part-time work and receive a special weekly allowance in place of their jobseeker’s payment. The scheme aims to serve as a stepping stone towards full-time employment.
Here’s all the information you need about the scheme and who can apply for it.
Who is eligible for the Part-Time Job Incentive Scheme?
You can participate in the PTJI Scheme if you get part-time work for less than 24 hours per week and immediately before that you were:
On long-term Jobseeker’s Allowance (JA) for at least 312 days. Days of unemployment on Jobseeker’s Benefit (JB) or the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment count towards the 312 days if you were getting JB immediately before you got Jobseeker’s Allowance. Getting a weekly JA payment of at least €154.60 if you are single or €252.10 if you are getting an increase for a qualified adult.
You must also undertake to remain on the scheme for 2 months. You can do more than one part-time job but the total hours worked must be less than 24. The part-time job you get must be likely to last at least 2 months and be insurable at PRSI Class A or J, reports RSVP Live.
Initially, you can stay on the PTJI scheme for one year. This may be extended for a further period. While on the scheme, you must continue to look for full-time work.
If you get full-time work but then lose it, and get another part-time job, you can return to your original Part-Time Job Incentive claim if you meet all the PTJI conditions. The Part-Time Job Incentive will only remain in payment for the duration that has not been used previously.
How much can I claim on the scheme?
Instead of your usual payment, you will get a weekly allowance of:
€154.60 per week if you are single €252.10 per week if you are getting an increase for a qualified adult
There are no increases in these rates for qualified children. The allowance is paid regardless of how much you earn in your job. The allowance is not taxable. However, your wages will be taxable in the usual way.
How to apply
Once you have secured the part-time job, you should contact your Intreo Centre or local Social Welfare Branch Office to apply for the PTJI scheme.
You will be asked to complete the application form PTJI1 (pdf) and give details of your part-time employment.
You can read more information on the application details here.
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