Pat Upton
Question:81 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Social Welfare if all self-employed people will have a PRSI number after 1 January 1994; and the effects this will have in relation to the working of various Government Departments.
Written Answers. - PRSI Number for Self-Employed.
The Revenue and Social Insurance (RSI) number is the unique personal reference number issued by my Department to a person for tax, social welfare and related purposes. Most people, including self-employed people, who are registered for income tax purposes or who are claiming a social welfare payment, already have an RSI number.
The extension of PRSI cover to self-employed people was introduced by me in 1988. Since that time the RSI number is being used as the main reference number for social welfare purposes. Any person who does not have an RSI number and who requires one for tax related purposes can apply to their local tax office who will make the necessary arrangements with my Department for the issue of an RSI number. People who require an RSI number in connection with a social welfare claim should contact my Department directly.
The allocation of RSI numbers to people is an ongoing feature of the work of my Department and the working arrangements with the Revenue Commissioners are satisfactory. The use of the RSI number for tax, social welfare and related purposes has proved very beneficial in the past in terms of improved service delivery and ease of access to services for people.