Thousands of workers can get €240 weekly payment on top of their wages

Thousands of people may be able to avail of a weekly payment from the Department of Social Protection while they are working.

The Part-Time Job Incentive (PTJI) Scheme allows certain people getting Jobseeker’s Allowance (JA) to take up part-time work and get a special weekly allowance instead of their jobseeker’s payment.

It is intended to be a stepping stone to full-time work.

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Here’s everything you need to know about the scheme, who is eligible and how to apply.

Who can claim Part-Time Job Incentive (PTJI)?

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 390 days (15 months). Days of unemployment on Jobseeker’s Benefit (JB) or the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment count towards the 390 days if you were getting JB immediately before you got Jobseeker’s Allowance.
• Getting a weekly JA payment of at least €147 if you are single or €239.70 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. If you get full-time work you may not return to the PTJI Scheme at the end of your full-time work no matter how short it was. Self-employed people are not eligible for this scheme.

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.

How much is the PTJI?

Instead of your usual payment, you will get a weekly allowance of:

• €147 per week if you are single
• €239.70 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.