Checklist: information for self-employed people
If you are self-employed and have had a downturn in business and a reduction in your income you can use the links and lists below to check out your entitlements.
The headings in the left hand column of each section link to general
documents on the subject, and those in the right hand column link to details of
specific payments or services.
Setting up a business
Becoming self-employed and Setting up a business give you a broad overview of the factors involved in setting up a business, including information on types of self-employment, tax, PRSI, legal issues and sources of support. |
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Supports for unemployed people |
Problems with self-employment
If you are no longer earning enough from self-employment, or your business has to close down, you may qualify for a social welfare payment. You do not need to deregister as self-employed to get a payment. |
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Jobseeker's Benefit (for people with sufficient PRSI contributions) Claiming for an adult dependant |
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Maintaining your social insurance record |
Becoming a voluntary contributor Signing on for credits (in some cases self-employed people may be able to sign for credited PRSI contributions) |
Money and debt
Getting credit |
Many small businesses have difficulty getting credit. Your Business Your Bank (pdf) is a guide on getting funding for small and medium businesses. It includes information on how to prepare a bank credit application. If you have a small or medium business and your application for credit is refused you may be able to apply to the Credit Review Office to have your case reviewed. |
Am I really self-employed?
Code of Practice for determining Employment or Self- Employment status of Individuals (pdf) |
Going back to education or getting back to work
There are a number of schemes to support people who are unemployed and want to get back to work. |
Other sources of information
The Citizens Information Board has published a booklet online: Supports and information for the self-employed (pdf). You can also get a print copy from any Citizens Information Centre. |
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County and City Enterprise Boards |
Language
Related Documents
- Setting up a business
This gives an overview of what you need to know if you are thinking of starting up a business. - Becoming self-employed
Working for yourself can have a number of advantages and disadvantages. Information on becoming self-employed as a sole trader and a description of the legalities and tax implications. - Back to Work Enterprise Allowance
If you are getting certain social welfare payments, there are supports to help you become self-employed. Find out about the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance scheme.
Contact Us
If you have a question relating to this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0761 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm) or you can visit your local Citizens Information Centre.