You can study full-time and keep it, and work any number of days: the first €165 a week of earnings is ignored. If you work 38 hours a fortnight or more, compare it with Working Family Payment.
Quick facts
- Personal rate
- €254 a week
- Per child under 12
- +€58
- Until
- Youngest child turns 14
- Earnings ignored
- First €165 a week, then half
- Full-time study
- Allowed
- Not with
- Working Family Payment
What it is
"Jobseeker's Transitional Payment (JST) is a social welfare payment for people who are parenting alone, whose youngest child is aged 7 to 13 inclusive." Rates: "Maximum personal rate Child Support Payment €254 €58 (child aged under 12) €78 (child aged 12 and over)".
You don't need to be genuinely seeking or available for full-time work, and you can study full-time and still get a SUSI maintenance grant. You do need to meet Intreo when asked and sign a quarterly declaration.
Who qualifies
You're the main carer of the child, who lives with you most of the week. "You cannot get JST if you have joint equal custody of the child." You can't be cohabiting. "If you are married and have separated, you cannot get JST until you have been separated for 3 months."
Working on JST
"If you are working, the first €165 of your gross weekly earnings is disregarded (or not taken into account). Half (50%) of the balance is assessed as means." Self-employed profit counts in full.
Citizens Information's example, earning €350 with one child: "Earnings of €350 - €165 disregard = €185 50% of €185 = €92.50 = Niamh's assessable earnings JST maximum payment of €312 - assessable earnings of €92.50 = €219.50".
"You cannot get the Working Family Payment in addition to Jobseeker's Transitional Payment." "You should check if you would be better off claiming Working Family Payment if you work at least 38 hours per fortnight."
Other means
Child maintenance isn't counted. "You can rent out a room in the home that you live in and earn up to €14,000 a year without it affecting your JST ." You can also get Fuel Allowance, the Back to School Allowance and Rent Supplement.
Apply on form JST1 at your Intreo Centre.
Common questions
What is Jobseeker's Transitional Payment?
A payment for lone parents whose youngest child is 7 to 13, paid until the youngest turns 14.
How much is Jobseeker's Transitional Payment?
Up to €254 a week, plus €58 for each child under 12 and €78 for each child 12 and over.
Do I have to look for full-time work on JST?
No. You don't need to be available for or seeking full-time work, but you must engage with Intreo when asked.
Can I work and get JST?
Yes, any number of days. The first €165 a week of gross earnings is ignored and half the rest is assessed.
Can I get JST and Working Family Payment?
No. Compare them if you work at least 38 hours a fortnight.