Marital status and social welfare entitlements
Information
For the purposes of most social welfare claims in Ireland (for example, Jobseeker's Allowance) and supplementary welfare allowance claims, unmarried couples who are living together are treated in the same way as married couples (or civil partners).
Your marital status will affect your entitlement to Widow's/Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Pension.
You can only claim Widow's/Widower's or Surviving Civil Partner's Pension if your spouse or civil partner dies. You will not be entitled to this pension if you re-marry or enter into a new civil partnership.
If you are in doubt about how your marital status will affect your claim, you should contact your local social welfare office. In the case of supplementary welfare allowance, you should contact the Department of Social Protection's representative (fomerly known as the Community Welfare Officer) in your local office.
Where to apply
Further information about how your marital status will or may affect your
entitlements is always available from your local
social welfare office. Staff will be happy to explain your entitlements and
to fill out forms.
You can contact the Department of Social Protection's representative at your local office.