Take a part-time job on Jobseeker’s Allowance and your payment is normally cut by a means test. The Part-Time Job Incentive Scheme replaces that with a flat weekly allowance — your earnings do not reduce it. It is meant as a stepping stone to full-time work, and it is one of the few routes where working more does not immediately cost you.
Quick facts
- Pays
- €160.90 a week single · €262.40 with a qualified adult
- Hours
- Under 24 a week, across all jobs
- You need
- 312 days on long-term Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Commit to
- Staying on the scheme 2 months
Who can use it
You can take part if you get part-time work for less than 24 hours per week and, immediately before that, you were:
- On long-term Jobseeker’s Allowance for at least 312 days. Days on Jobseeker’s Benefit, Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed), Jobseeker’s Pay-Related Benefit or the Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment can count towards the 312 days if you were getting that payment immediately before Jobseeker’s Allowance.
- Getting a weekly JA payment of at least €160.90 if single, or €262.40 with an increase for a qualified adult.
You must undertake to remain on the scheme for 2 months. You can hold more than one part-time job, but the total hours must stay under 24. The job must be likely to last at least 2 months and be insurable at PRSI Class A or J.
What it pays in 2026
Instead of your usual payment you get €160.90 a week if you are single, or €262.40 if you are getting an increase for a qualified adult.
How long it lasts
Initially one year, and it may be extended. You must keep looking for full-time work throughout. If you get full-time work, lose it, and then get another part-time job, you can return to your original Part-Time Job Incentive claim.
Common questions
How much does the Part-Time Job Incentive pay?
How many hours can I work?
How long do I need to have been on Jobseeker’s Allowance?
Can I use it if I am self-employed?
Check the official sources
This guide is general information, not financial advice. Rules, rates and eligibility change and differ by country — always confirm the current details with the relevant official body before you act.
Keep going
Going back to work part-time?
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