The COVID 19 pandemic unemployment payment (PUP) was introduced as an emergency measure to meet the surge in unemployment which resulted from the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic. In order to ensure that the scheme was accessible for the unprecedented number of applicants, flat payment rates were introduced. In certain circumstances, people with dependents were advised to apply for a jobseekers payment as they would be financially better off.
Flexibility is already provided under the Jobseeker's Benefit scheme to allow a person to take up limited levels of employment.
In the case of a self-employed person on Jobseeker's Benefit who has an underlying entitlement to PUP, they are also eligible for the COVID-19 Part Time Job Incentive for the self-employed. Under this scheme, a person who transitions from PUP or a jobseekers payment can return to self-employment for up to 24 hours per week. There is no limit to the amount a person can earn. There are 2 rates of weekly payment, a personal rate of €128.60 and a rate of €209.70 is payable if the recipient was paid an increase for a qualified adult on their jobseeker’s claim
The jobseekers schemes are statutory schemes and have different rules and conditions regarding employment. If the Deputy has a particular case, the details should be provided to my office so that the options available to the individual to take up employment can be assessed.
I trust that that information is helpful to the Deputy.
