Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005 section 68KE

Rate of benefit

Section 68KE sets out how Jobseeker's Pay-Related Benefit is calculated, including the percentage rates, weekly caps and floors, and the Minister's power to prescribe alternative amounts for specific groups.

• For claimants with at least 260 PRSI contributions, payment starts at 60% of previous earnings (max €450/week), dropping to 55% (max €375) from week 14, and 50% (max €300) from week 27.
• For claimants with fewer than 260 contributions, payment is 50% of previous earnings throughout, capped at €300 per week.
• A minimum payment of €125 per week applies in all cases; failure to meet activation requirements triggers a reduction to 80% of the amount otherwise payable.
• The Minister may prescribe alternative rates for specific groups but must remain within the statutory maximum and minimum limits and have regard to factors such as employment patterns, age and cost to the Exchequer.