Key takeaway
PRSI is a social insurance contribution deducted from your pay. Your contributions build up entitlement to benefits like Jobseeker's Benefit, Illness Benefit, and the State Pension.
Key things to know
- Most employees pay Class A PRSI at 4% of gross earnings. Your employer pays an additional ~11.15%.
- PRSI contributions are recorded as "stamps" — you need a certain number to qualify for most benefits.
- Check your PRSI record at mywelfare.ie using your MyGovID login.
- PRSI only applies once your weekly earnings exceed €352.
- Contributions from other EU countries can be combined with Irish contributions to qualify for benefits.
What is PRSI?
Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) is a compulsory contribution paid by employees and employers. It funds the Social Insurance Fund, which pays Jobseeker's Benefit, Illness Benefit, Maternity Benefit, and ultimately the State Pension (Contributory). It is deducted automatically from your pay, alongside income tax and USC.
PRSI Classes
Most employees are in Class A — the standard class for people in insurable employment earning over €352 per week. Class A contributions unlock the full range of social insurance benefits. Your payslip should show your PRSI class.
How Much is Deducted?
- You (employee): 4% of gross weekly earnings above €352
- Your employer: Approximately 11.15% of your gross earnings (an additional cost to them, not deducted from your pay)
If you earn €352 or less per week, no PRSI is deducted, though you may still accrue credited contributions.
What Benefits Do Contributions Unlock?
- Jobseeker's Benefit — 104 weeks of contributions overall, 39 in the last year
- Illness Benefit — 104 weeks of contributions overall, 39 in the last year
- Maternity/Paternity Benefit — 39 weeks of contributions in the 12 months before your baby is due
- State Pension (Contributory) — minimum of 520 full-rate contributions (10 years)
- Treatment Benefit (dental and optical) — after sufficient contributions
Checking Your PRSI Record
View your contribution history on mywelfare.ie using a MyGovID account. Check periodically to make sure all contributions from your employer(s) are recorded correctly.
EU Social Insurance Totalling
If you worked in another EU/EEA country before coming to Ireland, those contributions can be combined with your Irish contributions to help you qualify for benefits. This is particularly useful if you need Jobseeker's Benefit shortly after arriving. Contact the Department of Social Protection for details.
Official Sources
Sources: citizensinformation.ie, gov.ie, mywelfare.ie
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.