<div class="force-text-align-left"> The COVID 19 crisis is presenting immediate and severe financial challenges for businesses.Here are some practical steps you can take:1. Talk to your bank. All the banks have announced that they will offer flexibility to their customers, and they may be able to provide payment holidays or emergency working capital facilities.2. Take immediate steps to manage your cashflows. Look for scope to:<ul><li>Lower variable costs</li><li>Delay discretionary spend</li><li>Extend your payables</li><li>Expedite your receivables</li><li>Explore supply chain financing options</li></ul>3. Use available government supports for working capital.<ul><li>The Credit Guarantee Scheme supports loans up to €1 million for periods of up to 7 years. Applications can be made to AIB, Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank. Eligibility criteria apply.</li><li>Microenterprises, can access COVID-19 loans of up to €50,000 from MicroFinance Ireland. Loans are available at an interest rate of between 6.8% and 7.8%. Businesses can apply through their Local Enterprise Office or directly at<a href="https://microfinanceireland.ie/" target="_blank"> microfinanceireland.ie.</a> Eligibility criteria apply.</li><li>The €200m SBCI Covid-19 Working Capital Scheme for eligible businesses will be available within the next week. Maximum loan size will be €1.5 million (first €500,000 unsecured) and the maximum interest rate will be 4%. Applications can be made through the SBCI website at <a href="https://sbci.gov.ie/" target="_blank">sbci.gov.ie </a>. Eligibility criteria apply.</li><li>A €200m Package for Enterprise Supports including a Rescue and Restructuring Scheme is available through Enterprise Ireland for vulnerable but viable firms that need to restructure or transform their business.</li></ul>4. Get advice from your accountant or use the advisory support available from your local LEO.5. Check if your insurance policy covers you for an interruption in your business, or a temporary business closure, caused by Covid-196. If you have concerns about your ability to pay your tax liabilities speak to the Revenue Commissioners, who have advised:&quot;On an on-going basis, Revenue engages with viable businesses experiencing temporary cash flow or trading difficulties that affect the timely payment of tax. Revenue works very successfully with businesses that engage early to resolve their tax payment difficulties. Revenue will engage with any viable business thatexperiences temporary cashflow difficulties, including difficulties arising from exceptional circumstances such as the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak.” See <a href="http://www.revenue.ie/" target="_blank">www.revenue.ie.</a>7. Be aware of other government supports available. For example:<ul><li>Firms that need to reduce hours or days worked can avail of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection <a href="http://www.gov.ie/en/service/c20e1b-short-time-work-support" target="_blank">Short Term Work Support</a> by contacting their local Intreo Office.</li><li>The full range of Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Local Enterprise Office and Údarás na Gaeltachta grant supports will be available to firms to help with strategies to innovate, diversify markets and supply chains and to improve competitiveness.</li><li>The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation will provide a joint First Responder support service through the Intreo Offices and development agencies, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland in each region to provide tailored supports for impacted firms, with objective of avoiding mass lay-offs and buying time for firms to work through the short-term disruptions.</li><li>A Finance in Focus grant of €7,200 will be available to Enterprise Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta clients that want to access consultancy support to undertake immediate finance reviews.</li><li>In addition to their current range of business supports to microenterprises, LEOs can also provide business continuity vouchers from €2,500 to assist in preparing any business continuity issues that arise in the current challenging environment. </li><li>Enterprise Ireland has published a <a href="https://enterprise-ireland.com/en/about-us/services/covid-19/" target="_blank">Covid-19 Business Response Plan.</a></li></ul>The Department has updated its checklist on Business Continuity Planning which provides a <a href="https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Business-Continuity-Planning-A-checklist-of-Preparatory-Actions-in-Responding-to-the-COVID-19-Outbreak.html" target="_blank">checklist of preparatory actions for businesses in responding to COVID-19</a> and other relevant information and links on COVID-19.COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a> </div>

Government supports for COVID-19 impacted businesses

<h2>Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed)</h2>How To Apply For Jobseeker&#x27;s Payment (Self-Employed)• Employees and Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Payment? COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment - Emergency Payment for Employees and the Self Employed - is now available. <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/dept-of-employment-affairs-and-social-protection-notcie-14-march-" target="_blank">Apply here.</a>Extra benefits:If you are getting Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed), you may be entitled to:• Rent Supplement - a payment under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/supplementary_welfare_schemes/rent_supplement.html" target="_blank">Details here.</a>• Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance - an allowance to help with the cost of uniforms and footwear for children who are attending school - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/social_welfare_payments_to_families_and_children/back_to_school_clothing_and_footwear_allowance.html" target="_blank">Details here.</a>• Medical card - if your income is below a certain level, you may get a medical card - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/health/medical_cards_and_gp_visit_cards/medical_card.html" target="_blank">Details here.</a>• You do not qualify for the Household Benefits Package or Free Travel with Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed).COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker's Benefit

The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection is making the necessary preparations to ensure that there will be no disruption to welfare payments.People currently in receipt of a welfare payment will continue to receive this payment in accordance with their current entitlements if they are required to self-isolate or are diagnosed with Covid-19. There is no need for the people concerned to take any action.Payments to people who collect their payments in person at post offices but, due to illness or self-isolation, are unable to do so on the due date, will be held over until they can next attend a post office.An Post will allow you to nominate someone to collect your welfare payment.Get all the details <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/an-post-will-allow-you-to-nominate-someone-to-collect-your-welfar" target="_blank">here.</a>COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

People in receipt of existing Social Welfare Payments

Many employers can, and do, agree compassionate leave arrangements with staff who need to take short periods of time off to care for another person.These include arrangements to enable employees to work remotely from home, to alter shift-patterns, to work-up time taken, to rearrange parental leave or to bring forward annual leave entitlements from future work-periods.Where it is not possible to make appropriate compassionate leave arrangements, employees can call on some statutory entitlements.An employee is entitled to paid leave, known as ‘force majeure leave’ to provide urgent care for an immediate family relative such as a child, spouse, brother, sister, parent or grandparent. It is also available to a partner who is living with the employee. Force majeure is limited to a total of three days in a 12 month period or five days in a 36 month period. In the exceptional circumstances of Covid-19 it is expected that employers will, if at all possible, facilitate people by allowing them to take the full 5 days entitlement in one block, as required.Parents are entitled, with 6 weeks’ notice, to take up to 22 weeks unpaid parental leave to care for each child up to 12 years of age (16 years of age in the case of a child with a disability).Parents are also entitled, with 6 weeks’ notice, to take parents leave of 2 weeks for each child under 1 year of age born on or after 1 November 2019. Parents taking parents leave are eligible to apply for <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/b321b1-parents-benefit/" target="_blank">Parent&#x27;s Benefit</a> from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. Applications can be made online at <a href="https://www.mywelfare.ie/" target="_blank">www.mywelfare.ie</a> or by post.Employers are free to waive notice periods for parental/parents leave or to agree to provide paid leave as an alternative to parental/parents leave. Employers can also agree alternative leave/absence arrangements.COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Workers who need to take time off to care for person affected by COVID-19

Employees who are laid off temporarily, without pay, due to a reduction in business activity, can apply for a Jobseeker&#x27;s Payment. Employees who are put onto short-time working by their employer due to a reduction in business activity related to Covid-19 may apply for a Short Time Work Support payment. This application can be made in person at an Intreo Centre.<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/dept-of-employment-affairs-and-social-protection-notcie-14-march-" target="_blank">More information here.</a>COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Workers who are laid off temporarily or put on to short time working

Employers are requested to follow public health advice and should not ask staff to stay away from work except in accordance with this advice. Where employers send staff home in circumstances where they are not advised to do so, it is expected that they will continue to pay staff as normal. Any person who is not advised to <a href="https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/self-isolation-and-limited-social-interaction.html" target="_blank">self-isolate </a>in accordance with the up-to-date guidelines of the HSE, but is requested to stay at home by their employer as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19 will, in situations where the employer cannot continue to pay their wages, be considered to have been temporarily laid-off and can apply for an income support in the form of a Jobseeker&#x27;s Payment or Supplementary Welfare Allowance. <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/dept-of-employment-affairs-and-social-protection-notcie-14-march-" target="_blank">More information here.</a>COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Workers who are requested to stay at home by their employer (COVID-19)

Workers in receipt of the enhanced illness benefit payment who still face financial distress because their employer fails to pay sick pay beyond the level paid by the State, can apply for additional emergency income support, in the form of Supplementary Welfare Allowance (based on a means test). Applications are usually made in person, normally when a person is no longer confined to their home. People who require immediate support and cannot attend an Intreo Centre can phone 1890 800 024 or 01 2481398 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.Basic Supplementary Welfare AllowanceWhat the basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance isBasic Supplementary Welfare Allowance is a weekly allowance paid to people who do not have enough income to meet their needs and those of their families.How to qualifyIf you have no income, you may be entitled to the basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA). If your weekly income is below the Supplementary Welfare Allowance rate for your family size, a payment may be made to bring your income up to the appropriate Supplementary Welfare Allowance rate.If you have claimed a social welfare benefit or pension but it has not yet been paid and you have no other income, you may qualify for basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance while you are waiting for your payment. However, the amount paid while you are waiting will be deducted from the arrears of your social welfare payment.If you have started work, you may qualify for basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance for up to 30 days while you are waiting for your wages.You will normally qualify for Supplementary Welfare Allowance if you satisfy the following conditions:<ul><li>you are living in the State</li><li>you satisfy the <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ceff90-swa-means-assessment%20Guidelines/" target="_blank">SWA - Means Assessment</a></li><li>you have applied for any other benefit or allowance you may be entitled to</li><li>you have registered for work with your local<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/" target="_blank"> Intreo Centre</a> if you are of working age</li><li>you satisfy the habitual residence condition</li><li>EU/EEA and Swiss migrant workers who have been working in Ireland can access basic SWA and supplements without having habitual residence assessed, provided they have the right to reside in Ireland. However, people from the EU/EEA or Switzerland who move to Ireland in search of employment are subject to the habitual residence test in the normal way while looking for work</li></ul>You will not normally qualify for basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance if you are:<ul><li>in full-time work, that is, working for 30 hours or more per week*</li><li>in full-time education</li><li>involved in a trade dispute. However, you may claim Supplementary Welfare Allowance for your dependants</li></ul>*This condition does not apply to your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant. However, any income they have from work is taken into account in the means test.<h2>Rates of payment</h2>The basic Supplementary Welfare Allowance is made up of a personal rate for the applicant and additional amounts for any adult dependant or child dependant(s). A child dependant is a person under the age of 18 who lives with you and depends on you for support. If you have been getting SWA for at least 26 weeks, the age limit is 22 for a child dependant in full-time education or up to the end of the academic year after their 22nd birthday.<h5>Supplementary Welfare Allowance rates from January 2020</h5><h2></h2><img src="https://jobalert-blog-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/image/pay.jpg" style="max-width:calc(100% - 1.6rem);margin:1.6rem 0.8rem 2.4rem"/><h2>Apply</h2>You should contact the Community Welfare Services at your <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/cb07d7-supplementary-welfare-allowance-swa-list-of-offices-administering-swa/" target="_blank">local office</a>An application form is available to download here or from your <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/cb07d7-supplementary-welfare-allowance-swa-list-of-offices-administering-swa/" target="_blank">local office</a><h3>Claim Form: Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA1)</h3>Claim Form for Supplementary Welfare Allowance/ Exceptional Needs Payment - <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/24920/f93565af8bed495a817b8d7fbb18482a.pdf" target="_blank">Download Here</a>To help process your claim, you should have the following:<ul><li>Personal Public Service (PPS) Numbers for yourself, your spouse, civil partner or cohabitant and your children</li><li>proof of address</li><li>proof of residency (where relevant)</li><li>proof of identity, for example, a Public Services Card (if you have one), a passport, driving licence, work permit, immigration (GNIB) card</li><li>documents to show your income and financial situation, such as pay slips and bank statements</li></ul><h3>Operational Guidelines</h3>Operational guidelines describe the processes and procedures that staff in the department follow when carrying out their work.<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/d863f5-operational-guidelines-supplementary-welfare-allowance-scheme/" target="_blank">Operational Guidelines: Supplementary Welfare Allowance Scheme</a> COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Workers whose employers do not supplement the State Illness Benefit payment

Redundancy occurs when you lose your job due to the closure of a business or a reduction of the workforce. This can happen due to lack of work available or the financial circumstances of the firm.Alternatively, an employer may lay you off or put you on short time for a number of weeks.<a href="http://www.lawreform.ie/_fileupload/RevisedActs/WithAnnotations/HTML/EN_ACT_1967_0021.htm" target="_blank">Under the Redundancy Payments Acts 1967–2014 </a>a lay-off situation arises where your employer is unable to provide work for you, but believes this to be a temporary situation and gives you notification of the lay off before the work finishes.A short-time situation arises where, due to a reduction in the amount of work to be done, your weekly pay is less than half your normal weekly pay or your hours worked are reduced to less than half the normal weekly working hours. This must be a temporary situation and your employer must notify you before the reduction starts.<h3>COVID-19 (coronavirus)</h3>If your employment is affected by coronavirus, <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/your-employment-rights-during-covid-19-restrictions" target="_blank">you can read our document on Employment rights during the COVID-19 restrictions.</a><h2>Rules</h2>The employer should explain to the employees the reason for the lay off or short-time working and keep employees informed of the situation during this time. In both cases these must be temporary situations and your employer must notify you to this effect before they start. The best way to do this is by using <a href="http://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/Publications_Forms/Lay_Off_and_Short_Term_Procedures_Form_RP9_.pdf" target="_blank">Part A of form RP9 (pdf).</a> If your employer fails to notify you of the lay off or short-time working, there could be a claim for statutory redundancy payment against your employer.Your employer can lay you off or put you on short time if it is in your contract of employment or if it is custom and practice in your workplace. Otherwise your employer should not lay you off or put you on short time without your agreement. However if you do not agree you may be made redundant. You can read more about your options if you do not agree to the lay off or short-time working in our document on <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/employment_rights_and_conditions/contracts_of_employment/being_asked_to_reduce_your_hours_of_work.en.html" target="_blank">being asked to reduce your pay or hours of work.</a><h3>Selection of employees</h3>When selecting employees for lay off or short-time working an employer should apply the same standard of selection criteria as for redundancy. The criteria should be reasonable and applied in a fair manner. For example, the custom and practice in the workplace may be last in, first out or the contract of employment may set out criteria for selection. Under employment equality legislation, the selection must not discriminate against employees on any of the following 9 grounds: gender, civil status, family status, age, disability, religious belief, race, sexual orientation or membership of the Traveller community.<h3>Social welfare payments</h3>If you are laid off or are on short-time working you may be entitled to Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit or Jobseeker&#x27;s Allowance. If you are getting Working Family Payment this may be affected by the reduction in your working hours.<h3>Claiming redundancy</h3>If a lay-off or a short-time situation exists and has continued for 4 weeks or more, or for 6 weeks in the last 13 weeks, you may give your employer a notice in writing of your intention to claim redundancy under the Redundancy Payments Acts 1967-2014 - see &#x27;How to apply&#x27; below. If the period of lay-off or redundancy has ended, you must do this within 4 weeks.Unless your employer gives you a counter-notice within 7 days of your notice, you may be entitled to a redundancy payment provided that you qualify for redundancy. If your employer gives you a counter-notice within the allotted time, it must be to the effect that within 4 weeks of the date of your claim for redundancy, it will be possible to offer you not less than 13 weeks&#x27; work without lay off or short time.You should note that if you claim redundancy in this way you are considered to have left your job voluntarily and therefore you will lose any right to notice from your employer under the Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973-2005. However if you have been laid off and you are subsequently made redundant by your employer you do not lose your notice entitlements.<h3>Redundancy payment and notice when on short time</h3>If you have been put on short time and then are made redundant your redundancy payment may be based on your pay for a full week. It has been the view of the Employment Appeals Tribunal (now the Workplace Relations Commission) that when a person is put on short time, that is, less than half their normal weekly earnings, the gross wage for the calculation of a redundancy lump sum is based on a full week&#x27;s pay.Notice: When your employer gives you notice, your notice entitlement is based on your full-time work. When you were put on short-time work, your contract of employment was temporarily suspended. When your employer decided to make you redundant, he or she had to re-activate your contract in order to dismiss you on grounds of redundancy. If you were made redundant and you were not required to work out your notice you are entitled to payment in lieu of notice which is your normal pay for that notice period. This means that your notice entitlement is based on the hours of work in your contract of employment, not on the short-time hours of work.<h3>Duration of lay off or short time</h3>If you do not wish to claim redundancy but the lay-off or short-time situation continues, the question arises as to whether it is a temporary situation. If it becomes apparent that it is no longer temporary then the situation is now a redundancy rather than a lay-off or short-time working. It is the employer who initially decides whether or not there is a redundancy situation. If there is a dispute about this it should be referred to the Workplace Relations Commission to make a decision.<h3>Seasonal workers</h3>In the case of workers who have been laid off for an average period of more than 12 weeks during the 4 years prior to redundancy, the provisions relating to lay off above will not apply until the end of that average period. If you are a seasonal worker, therefore, there will normally be no question of redundancy until the usual commencement time of your seasonal work. If you are not then re-employed, the question of redundancy arises, but not until then.<h2>How to apply</h2>If you have been laid off or on short-time working for 4 weeks or more, you may give your employer notice of your intention to claim a redundancy payment on form <a href="http://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/Publications_Forms/Lay_Off_and_Short_Term_Procedures_Form_RP9_.pdf" target="_blank">RP9 (pdf).</a>If your employer has not paid your redundancy lump sum, you should apply to your employer for it using form RP77 (pdf). If your employer still refuses to pay it, you can apply to the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection for direct payment from the Social Insurance Fund. This must be done online using <a href="http://www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/Online-Redundancy-Claim.aspx" target="_blank">form RP50 as follows:</a><ul><li>If your employer is unable to pay your redundancy lump sum, they should sign the RP50. They should submit a letter from an accountant or solicitor stating they are unable to pay and accepting liability for 100% of the lump sum owing to the Social Insurance Fund. Documentary evidence such as audited accounts should also be included.</li><li>If your employer refuses to pay your redundancy lump sum or if there is a dispute about redundancy you can bring a claim to the Workplace Relations Commission. You must use the online complaint form available on workplacerelations.ie. This must be done within one year of your dismissal. Then you apply for your lump sum by sending a completed form RP50 together with a favourable decision from the adjudicator of the Workplace Relations Commission.</li></ul><h2>Where to apply</h2>You should send your application for payment from the Social Insurance Fund to:<h3>Redundancy Payments Section</h3>Department of Employment Affairs and Social ProtectionGround FloorGandon HouseAmiens StreetDublin 1D01 A361Tel: (01) 673 4500 (If calling from outside the Republic of Ireland please call + 353 1 673 4500)Locall: 1890 800 699 (Note: the rates charged for using 1890 (Lo-call) numbers may vary)Homepage: <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/78213a-redundancy-payments/" target="_blank">https://www.gov.ie/en/service/78213a-redundancy-payments/</a>For further information about the Redundancy Payments Scheme contact:<h3>Workplace Relations Commission - Information and Customer Service</h3>O&#x27;Brien RoadCarlowR93 E920Opening Hours: Mon. to Fri. 9.30am to 5pmTel: (059) 917 8990Locall: 1890 80 80 90Homepage: <a href="https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/" target="_blank">https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/ </a>COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Lay-off, short-time working and redundancy

<h2>Introduction</h2>Ireland entered the ‘delay phase’ in its response to COVID -19 (coronavirus) on 13 March 2020. This means that:<ul><li>All schools, childcare and educational facilities have closed</li><li>Indoor gatherings of more than 100 people or outdoor gatherings of more than 500 people have been cancelled</li><li>All State-run cultural institutions have closed</li></ul>These measures will remain in place until 29 March 2020.The Government has <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/99104a-covid-19-coronavirus/" target="_blank">encouraged employers</a> to allow employees to work from home where possible, and be as flexible as possible in their response to the restrictions that are now in place.This document outlines the options available to employees in a number of different scenarios, and directs you to where you can get more information and financial assistance if needed.<h2>If you are sick or have been asked to self-isolate</h2>If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, you should not go to work. You should contact your GP for advice. Coronavirus symptoms are explained on the <a href="https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/coronavirus.html#Symptoms" target="_blank">HSE website.</a>While you are sick with coronavirus, you may be entitled to <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/employment_rights_and_conditions/leave_and_holidays/sick_leave.en.html" target="_blank">sick pay</a> from your employer. This depends on your contract of employment. Your employer does not have to pay you when you cannot come to work because you are sick with coronavirus, unless it is part of your contract of employment.If your employer does not pay you, you should apply for enhanced Illness Benefit (<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19-how-to-apply-for-illness-" target="_blank">More information here</a>) from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. You do not need to satisfy the usual PRSI conditions for Illness Benefit if you are off sick from work with COVID-19. This means that you will be eligible for the payment even if you have only recently started working.Your GP may advise you to self-isolate before you have been diagnosed with COVID-19. This means that you have been asked to stay indoors and completely avoid contact with other people. You are entitled to Illness Benefit if you have been medically advised to self-isolate.Enhanced Illness Benefit will be paid at a higher rate than Illness Benefit and is only available where you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or have been told to self-isolate by a medical professional because of COVID-19.<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19-how-to-apply-for-illness-" target="_blank">You can read more about claiming Illness Benefit.</a><h2><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19-how-to-apply-for-illness-" target="_blank"></a>If you have to care for someone who is sick with COVID-19 or has been told to self-isolate</h2>If you are not sick, but you cannot go to work because you have to care for a sick child or other relative, you can ask for paid leave. If your employer cannot give you paid leave, you can ask for statutory leave. Statutory means that the leave is set out in law, for example, your right to parental leave.<h3>Paid compassionate leave</h3>Employers have been asked to be as flexible as possible in assisting employees with care arrangements. This could include:<ul><li>Offering paid compassionate leave</li><li>Allowing you to work from home</li><li>Altering your shifts, so that you can coordinate caring between you and your partner, or another person.</li><li>Allowing you to rearrange holidays</li><li>Allowing you to take paid time off that you can work back at a later time</li></ul><h3>Statutory leave</h3>If none of the options above is available to you, and you cannot arrange for paid leave from your employer, you can apply for one of the statutory schemes below.<ul><li><a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/employment_rights_and_conditions/leave_and_holidays/types_of_leave_from_work.html#lcdc92" target="_blank">Force majeure leave (this is paid leave)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/employment_rights_and_conditions/leave_and_holidays/parental_leave.en.html" target="_blank">Parental leave</a> if you are looking after a child up to the age of 12 (or 16 if the child has a disability)</li><li><a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/employment_rights_and_conditions/leave_and_holidays/parents_leave.en.html" target="_blank">Parent’s leave</a> if you are caring for a child up to the age 1 who was born after 1 November 2019</li></ul>You are allowed to take 3 days force majeure leave in a 12-month period, or 5 days in a 36 month period. You can ask your employer to allow you to take the full 5 days paid force majeure leave together.You normally give your employer 6 weeks’ notice if you want to take parental or parent’s leave, but you can ask your employer to wave this notice period.Your employer does not have to pay you when you are on parental or parent’s leave. If you are on parent’s leave you can apply for <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/social_welfare_payments_to_families_and_children/parents_benefit.en.html" target="_blank">Parent’s Benefit.</a> If you are on parental leave, you can apply for means-tested <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/supplementary_welfare_schemes/supplementary_welfare_allow.en.html" target="_blank">Supplementary Welfare Allowance.</a><h2>If you can’t go to work because you have no childcare</h2>Your place of work may still be open over the coming weeks, and your employer may be expecting you to go to work as usual. If you cannot do this because you have to look after children and they are not sick with the virus, you can ask your employer for paid leave.The Government has asked employers to be as flexible as possible in allowing staff time off to look after their children or other members of their families. This could include:<ul><li>Offering paid compassionate leave</li><li>Allowing you to work from home</li><li>Altering your shifts, so that you can coordinate caring between you and your partner, or another person.</li><li>Allowing you to rearrange holidays</li><li>Allowing you to take paid time off that you can work back at a later time</li></ul><h3>Statutory leave</h3>If none of the above is available to you, and you cannot arrange for paid leave from your employer, you can apply for one of the statutory schemes below. Statutory means that they are set out in law.<ul><li><a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/employment_rights_and_conditions/leave_and_holidays/parental_leave.en.html" target="_blank">Parental leave</a> if you are looking after a child up to the age of 12 (or 16 if the child has a disability)</li><li><a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/employment/employment_rights_and_conditions/leave_and_holidays/parents_leave.en.html" target="_blank">Parent’s leave</a> if you are caring for a child up to age 1 who was born after 1 November 2019</li></ul>You normally give your employer 6 weeks’ notice if you want to take parental or parent’s leave, but you can ask your employer to wave this notice period.Your employer does not have to pay you when you are on parental or parent’s leave. If you are on parent’s leave you can apply for <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/social_welfare_payments_to_families_and_children/parents_benefit.en.html" target="_blank">Parent’s Benefit.</a> If you are on parental leave, you can apply for means-tested <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/supplementary_welfare_schemes/supplementary_welfare_allow.en.html" target="_blank">Supplementary Welfare Allowance.</a><h2>If your employer has no work for you, or less work than usual</h2>Your employer may decide to close their business for this period and send you home. This is called a temporary lay-off. If your employer cannot pay for this period, you can apply for <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/dept-of-employment-affairs-and-social-protection-notcie-14-march-" target="_blank">Jobseeker’s Benefit</a> or <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/dept-of-employment-affairs-and-social-protection-notcie-14-march-" target="_blank">Jobseeker’s Allowance.</a>If your employer reduces your hours to 3 days or less per week from your normal full-time hours, you can apply for a payment called <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/short-time-work-support-payment-if-you-re-working-week-has-been-c" target="_blank">Short Time Work Support which is a form of Jobseeker’s Benefit.</a>Your employer can also put you on short-time working which is a more formal procedure and applies in the following situation:<ul><li>Due to a reduction in the amount of work to be done, your weekly pay is less than half your normal weekly pay or</li><li>Your hours worked are reduced to less than half your normal weekly working hours</li></ul><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/lay-off-short-time-working-and-redundancy" target="_blank">Find out more about lay-off and short-time working.</a>COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Your employment rights during COVID-19 restrictions

COVID-19, also known as coronavirus, is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. The Government has announced that the rules for Illness Benefit and Supplementary Welfare Allowance will be changed to help prevent the transmission of coronavirus. The changes mean that if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or are suspected of having COVID-19 and are medically required to self-isolate, you can get income support. Legislation is required to implement these changes and emergency legislation is being prepared. The proposed changes are: You will not have to wait 6 days before you can apply for Illness Benefit. This means Illness Benefit can cover the first week of a COVID-19 diagnosis (or medically-required self-isolation) and any subsequent weeks. The personal rate of Illness Benefit will increase from €203 to €305 per week for up to 2 weeks if you are medically required to self-isolate, or for the duration of your medically-certified absence from work with a COVID-19 diagnosis. The new enhanced Illness Benefit rate will be effective from 9 March 2020 and workers will be entitled to a refund of any arrears due from this date when the legislation is in place. The normal social insurance requirements for Illness Benefit will be waived or the means test for Supplementary Welfare Allowance will be removed, if you are medically required to self-isolate or diagnosed with COVID-19.Where an employee or a self-employed person is medically required to <a href="https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/self-isolation-and-limited-social-interaction.html" target="_blank">self-isolate</a> or has been diagnosed with Covid-19, they can apply for the enhanced <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/" target="_blank">Illness Benefit payment</a>. In the interests of public health, this payment will only be paid where people remain confined to their home or a medical facility while in receipt of this enhanced Illness Benefit. How to qualify To receive the enhanced payment, you must be: • self-isolating on the instruction of a doctor or diagnosed with COVID-19 (Coronavirus) • be absent from work and not getting paid by your employer The standard increases payable in respect of adult and child dependents will continue to be paid. Rates of paymentThe personal rate for this payment is €305, as compared with the normal Illness Benefit rate of €203.How to ApplyStep 1If you are suffering from COVID-19 or a doctor advises that you self-isolate, the doctor will then complete a medical certificate on your behalf and send this directly to the department. To receive a payment, you will need to provide your doctor with your: • name • PPS Number • date of birth Step 2You now need to complete an application form for Illness Benefit (Form IB 1)There are three ways that you can make an application: • you can call 1890 800 024 or 01 2481398 between 9.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday to get an application form by post• organise someone to pick up a form at your doctor’s surgery or at your<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/" target="_blank"> local Intreo Centre</a>• an online application process will be available by the end of MarchIf you have been medically certified to self-isolate or are diagnosed with COVID-19 do not attend your doctor&#x27;s office or Intreo Centre.It is important to complete part 5 of the Illness Benefit form as this contains how you would like to be paid. You don&#x27;t have to fill in part 7 of the form.Send your application form by Freepost to:Social Welfare ServicesAddress: PO Box 1650, Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Dublin 1 Once both the application form and the medical certificate are received payment will be processed.You should continue to liaise with your doctor in relation to your diagnosis and the length of time you are medically certified unfit to work because of COVID-19 .To help us to process all payments as quickly as possible, we would kindly ask you not to phone the department seeking updates on your application as staff will be focusing on processing applications. Thank you for your co-operation.To be eligible for this payment a person must be confined to their home or a medical facility.COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Workers who are diagnosed with COVID-19 - How to apply for illness benefit

Short-time Work Support is a form of Jobseeker’s Benefit and is an income support payment if you have been temporarily placed on a shorter working week.The payment is made in respect of your regular salary for the days that you are no longer working. For example, If your working week has been reduced from a 5 day work pattern to a 3 day work pattern, you can receive support for the other 2 days.Short-time Work Support is paid for a maximum of 234 days. Your entitlement will depend on the number of social insurance contributions you have.To qualify for Short-time Work Support, you must satisfy the <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/1221b0-jobseekers-benefit/" target="_blank">two main PRSI Conditions</a> for Jobseeker&#x27;s BenefitEmployees must work 3 days per week or less to qualify, having previously been employed on a full time basis.How to qualifyTo qualify for Short-time Work Support, you must be:<ul><li>temporarily working a standard reduced weekly work pattern</li><li>working 3 days or less per week having previously worked full-time</li><li>be under 66 years of age</li><li>be capable of work and be available for full-time work</li><li>have enough paid or credited social insurance (PRSI) contributions at class A, H, S or P</li></ul><h2>Rates of Payment</h2>Your rate of payment will depend on your average weekly earnings in the governing contribution year and the change in your work pattern. For example, if you are placed on a 3 day work pattern having previously worked 5 days, you may be entitled to up €81.20 for the 2 days you are no longer working. This represents two fifths of the maximum weekly rate of Jobseekers Benefit of €203.You may also get an increased rate of payment for a qualified adult and qualified children.Short-time Work Support is not taxable.<h2>Apply</h2>The quickest way to apply for Jobseeker’s Benefit is through<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/7acab8-mywelfare/" target="_blank"> MyWelfare.ie</a>You must have a verified <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/4bcfc9-mygovid/" target="_blank">MyGovID </a>to use this service. If you complete your form on-line, you can then send on the UP14 form completed by your employer.Employees can also apply for Short-time Work Support at their <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/" target="_blank">Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office</a>You should apply as soon as your days have been reduced otherwise you could lose some payment.To apply, you will need the following documents along with the application form:<ul><li>identification – your public service card, passport or driving licence</li><li>proof of your address – a utility bill or letter from a government department</li></ul><h3>Application Form: Jobseeker&#x27;s Allowance or Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (UP1) - <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/30629/aa07a0596510483e984e52c0a1826100.pdf" target="_blank">Download here</a></h3>Your employer must also complete the form below Short Time Work Support Form (UP14) - <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/70563/627e3a4b125e4990bf02f385e1b7e357.pdf" target="_blank">Download Here</a>You must inform us of the days of employment and unemployment for each week you are on a reduced working pattern. Further information can be found in our Short Term Working Booklet below.Short Term Working Booklet Information booklet on Short-time Work Support (available under Jobseekers Benefit Scheme) <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/71379/e9b8dff1decd4d5eb54eb2eab5d31d22.pdf" target="_blank"> Download Here</a>.Appeals You can appeal a decision if you are unhappy with it. You should appeal within 21 days of the decision and you can ask for an oral hearing. An appeals officer, whose decision is final, will then decide your case. Some cases can be decided without an oral hearing. If new information comes to light or your circumstances change, you can apply for Short term Work Support scheme again. Operational Guidelines Operational guidelines describe the processes and procedures that staff in the department follow when carrying out their work. <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e95f88-operational-guidelines-jobseekers-benefit/" target="_blank"> Operational Guidelines: Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit </a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/eb1410-operational-guidelines-payment-related-issues/" target="_blank">Operational Guidelines: Payment-related issues</a> COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Short-time Work Support Payment if you're working week has been cut

12/03/2020 An Post has just announced special arrangements for post office customers in receipt of payments from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP). In the event of a customer not being able to collect their DEASP payment personally at the Post Office a nominated person (Temporary Agent) can be nominated to collect the payment on their behalf. When collecting a payment, a ‘Temporary Agent’ must produce the recipient&#x27;s card as issued by the DEASP as well as their own valid photo I.D. e.g current Passport, Driving Licence or Public Service Card. To become a Temporary Agent, the recipient must complete the required form which is available from the Post Office. Post offices throughout the country continue to operate as normal. We are carefully monitoring the situation regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus). Business Continuity Plans are in place and we are working closely with the HSE Expert team, the Health Threats Coordination Group and international postal organisations. See anpost.com for further updates. <a href="https://www.anpost.com/AnPost/media/PDFs/Appointment-of-Temporary-Agent.pdf" target="_blank"> Download appointment of temporary agent application form</a>COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

An Post will allow you to nominate someone to collect your welfare payment 

Section 1: COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment - Emergency Payment for Employees and the Self Employed.Section 2. Employees: How to apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Payments online - for people losing their jobs or going on Short-Time due to COVID-19. *Must be completed within the next 6 weeks after receipt of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. Section 3. Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed). *Must be completed within the next 6 weeks after receipt of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. Section 4. All other important COVID-19 information for both Employees and Employers.-Section 1: COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment - Emergency Payment for Employees and the Self Employed.What COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment isThis new payment will be available to all employees and the self-employed who have lost employment due to a downturn in economic activity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The payment has a simple one–page application form and will be paid for a period of 6 weeks at a flat rate payment of €350 per week for jobseekers. It is designed to quickly deliver a social welfare payment to the unemployed and provide income security during this 6-week period.Individuals applying for the payment will be required to apply for the normal jobseeker’s payments within this 6-week period. Once this normal jobseeker claim is subsequently received, the department will process these claims and reconcile payments at that time. This will involve backdating increased payments for certain customers. Minister for Employment Regina Doherty stated:“Ireland has entered unchartered territory as a consequence of the spread of Covid-19. This is now both a public health and economic issue.“In light of the significant volumes of jobseeker applications expected this week, the Department will from tomorrow be introducing a new Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment specifically designed to get thousands of people into payment as quickly as possible.”The new payment that has been put in place will be available to all employees and the self-employed who have lost employment due to a downturn in economic activity caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.The payment will have a simple one – page application form and will be paid for a period of 6 weeks at a flat rate payment of €350 per week.Individuals applying for the payment will be required to apply for the normal jobseeker’s payments within this 6 week period. Once this normal jobseeker claim is subsequently received, the Department will process these claims and reconcile payments at that time. This will involve backdating increased payments for certain customers.How to ApplyThere is no need for to attend your local Intreo Centre but you can apply in the following ways:This guide describes how to apply for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment - <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/71477/5df3b7f1f0fc454faefd8f906100ff99.pdf" target="_blank">Download here.</a>An application form for the new Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment can be <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/71472/a026043e90cc4d03bdfb1f3a58f3d7af.pdf" target="_blank">downloaded here</a> and returned to us to PO BOX 12896, Dublin 1ORYou can apply for another income support from us through our online portal <a href="https://services.mywelfare.ie/" target="_blank">www.MyWelfare.ie</a> (you will need a Public Services Card)ORPhone us on 1890 800 024 or 01 2481398 and we will send you the relevant application form for the new payment.I am unable to print forms to claim for social welfare payments? Request a Form By Post - This email address is only for application forms. Email: forms@welfare.ieA dedicated Help Line set up for businesses around COVID-19 has also been set up. Call: +353 1 631 2002.Minister Doherty added:“I want to reassure our clients that the Department will process all applications for income support as soon as possible. The new payment will speed this process up and ensure that our customers receive a payment from the Department in as short a time as possible. Payments will issue based on date of application, not date of processing, meaning that all payments will be back dated. We would ask customers to please keep checking your Bank Account as payment may issue in advance of us formally notifying you.”We would ask the members of the public to please assist us over the next few days by applying for income support from the department, such as the full Jobseekers Payment, through our online channel mywelfare.ie. See the below information to get started. <h2>Section 2. Employees: How to apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Payments online - for people losing their jobs or going on Short-Time due to COVID-19.</h2>The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection are experiencing an unprecedented increase in claims and queries across several of the department’s income support schemes, most notably our Jobseeker&#x27;s schemes.Combined with measures to apply social distancing, this large increase in claims caused delays in many of our Intreo Centres yesterday, for which we apologise.The department is making every effort to process applications from people losing their jobs or going on Short-Time due to COVID-19. The department has put in place a series of contingencies to deal with the impact of COVID-19 and these include staff working over the weekend, overtime and significant staff numbers being redeployed to priority areas to respond to increases in jobseeker applications. How to apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Payments:In order to respond as quickly as possible to the large increase, the department would point out that there is, in many cases, no need for people to attend an office in person to submit an application.If possible, we would ask people to:Download the application form from our <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/cb3726-jobseekers-payments/" target="_blank">website</a>. This can then be posted or dropped in to your<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/directory/category/e1f4b5-intreo-offices/?referrer=/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/" target="_blank"> local Intreo Centre</a> ORApply on our online portal (you will need a Public Services Card) - <a href="https://services.mywelfare.ie/" target="_blank">https://services.mywelfare.ie/</a> <h2>Section 3. Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed)</h2>If you are self-employed and your business has reduced significantly or closed, you can apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed).What Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed) isJobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed) is a payment for people between 18 and 66 who become fully or partly unemployed and have paid enough pay-related social insurance (PRSI) contributions.Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed) is paid for nine months or six months depending on the number of social insurance contributions you have.How to qualifyTo qualify for Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed), you must:<ul><li>be under pension age (which is currently 66)</li><li>satisfy the PRSI contribution conditions</li><li>not be engaged in self-employment</li><li>be capable of working and available for full-time work</li><li>be genuinely seeking work</li><li>prove unemployment in the prescribed manner</li></ul>You can work as an employee for up to 3 days a week and still get Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed) for the other days as long as you are available for full-time work.Social Insurance (PRSI) ContributionsTo qualify for Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed), you must satisfy two PRSI contribution conditions.Condition 1You must have 156 Class “S” contributions paid or 104 Class “A” contributions paid since entering insurable employment.Condition 2You must have 52 Class “S” contributions paid in the governing contribution year.The governing contribution year is the second last complete tax year before the year in which the claim is made. For example, for claims made in 2019, the governing contribution year is 2017. Jobseekers over 62If you are over the age of 62 and receiving Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed), you do not have to:• Meet with a case officer in your<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/" target="_blank"> local Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office</a>• Sign on monthlyIn most cases, you can have your payment paid directly to a bank account.Jobseekers over 65If you are 65, or turn 65 while receiving Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed), and have at least 156 social insurance (PRSI) contribution weeks paid and have 52 PRSI Class “S” contributions paid in the governing contribution year you can continue to receive your payment up to your 66th birthday.This applies even if your claim is due to end before that date.How To Apply For Jobseeker&#x27;s Payment (Self-Employed)To apply, please fill in the application form (available below). This can then be posted or dropped in to your <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/40cf48-find-your-local-intreo-office/" target="_blank">local Intreo Centre.</a>You should apply as soon as you are no longer self-employed otherwise you could lose some payment.To apply, you will need the following documents, in addition to the application form:• Identification: your Public Services Card (PSC), passport or driving licence• Proof of your address: a recent utility bill or letter from a government departmentYou can apply even if you do not have all of the documents but you cannot get a decision on your application until you have provided all of the documents.Application Form: Please complete in Black Pen using BLOCK LETTERS. Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed) (UP1 JBSE) - <a href="https://assets.gov.ie/42221/798cc6889e3249bc88103db93d52cb91.pdf" target="_blank">Download Here.</a>AppealsYou can appeal a decision if you are unhappy with it. You should appeal within 21 days of the decision and you can ask for an oral hearing.An appeals officer, whose decision is final, will then decide your case. Some cases can be decided without an oral hearing.If new information comes to light or your circumstances change, you can apply for Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed) again.Additional information for Self Employed people: Extra benefits:If you are getting Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed), you may be entitled to:• Rent Supplement - a payment under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/supplementary_welfare_schemes/rent_supplement.html" target="_blank">Details here.</a>• Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance - an allowance to help with the cost of uniforms and footwear for children who are attending school - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/social_welfare_payments_to_families_and_children/back_to_school_clothing_and_footwear_allowance.html" target="_blank">Details here.</a>• Medical card - if your income is below a certain level, you may get a medical card - <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/health/medical_cards_and_gp_visit_cards/medical_card.html" target="_blank">Details here.</a>• You do not qualify for the Household Benefits Package or Free Travel with Jobseeker’s Benefit (Self-Employed).Taxation of Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed)Jobseeker&#x27;s Benefit (Self-Employed) is taxable. <a href="https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/irish_social_welfare_system/claiming_a_social_welfare_payment/taxation_of_social_welfare_payments.en.html" target="_blank">More info here.</a><h2>Section 4. All other important COVID-19 information for both Employees and Employers.</h2>Here are the latest COVID-19 updates from The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection:<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/govt-announces-national-covid-19-income-support-scheme" target="_blank">• Govt announces National COVID-19 Income Support Scheme</a> - Emergency pandemic payment will increase from €203 to €350. Workers who have lost their jobs due to the crisis will receive an enhanced emergency COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment of €350 per week (an increase from €203). Get all the details <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/govt-announces-national-covid-19-income-support-scheme" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/govt-announces-national-covid-19-income-support-scheme" target="_blank">here.</a>• Unable to collect social welfare payments? An Post will allow you to nominate someone to collect your welfare payment. Get all the details <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/an-post-will-allow-you-to-nominate-someone-to-collect-your-welfar" target="_blank">here.</a>• Has your work week been cut short? Short-time Work Support Payment is now available. Details <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/short-time-work-support-payment-if-you-re-working-week-has-been-c" target="_blank">here.</a>• Workers who are diagnosed with COVID-19 - <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19-how-to-apply-for-illness-" target="_blank">How to apply for illness benefit?</a>• Learn about your employment rights during COVID-19 restrictions <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/your-employment-rights-during-covid-19-restrictions" target="_blank">here.</a>• Have you been Laid-off or made redundant? Everything you need to know <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/lay-off-short-time-working-and-redundancy" target="_blank">here.</a>• Workers whose employers do not supplement the <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-whose-employers-do-not-supplement-the-state-illness-benef" target="_blank">State Illness Benefit payment</a>• Have you been requested to stay at home by your employer due to COVID-19? <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-requested-to-stay-at-home-by-their-employer-covid" target="_blank">Here&#x27;s what you need to know. </a>• Help for workers who are laid off temporarily or <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-are-laid-off-temporarily-or-put-on-to-short-time-work" target="_blank">put on to short time working</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-need-to-take-time-off-to-care-for-person-affected-by-" target="_blank">• Workers who need to take time off to care for person affected by COVID-19</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/workers-who-need-to-take-time-off-to-care-for-person-affected-by-" target="_blank">• </a>Support for your business: Learn about all of the Government supports for COVID-19 impacted businesses <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/government-supports-for-covid-19-impacted-businesses" target="_blank">here.</a>Employment opportunities with the HSEBe On Call For Ireland – Sign up now.The HSE is looking for healthcare &amp; non healthcare professionals.Calling all healthcare Professionals, all disciplines, retired, students and people with other skills that can help during the effects and impact of COVID-19.Ireland needs you and you will be paid a salary in line with the role you are appointed to.<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/be-on-call-for-ireland-hse-is-looking-for-healthcare-non-healthca" target="_blank">Click here for all the details. </a>Wishing you all health and happiness.COVID-19: Get all of the latest updates for Employees and Employers <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/covid-19-all-the-latest-updates-for-employees-and-employers" target="_blank">here.</a>

Employees and Self Employed: How to apply for Jobseeker's Payment

Latest information from the department on COVID-19.The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection are introducing measures to provide income support to people affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus).3 major changes have been announced:<ul><li>the current 6-day waiting period for Illness Benefit will not apply to anyone who has COVID-19 (Coronavirus) or is in medically-required self-isolation</li><li>the personal rate of Illness Benefit will increase from €203 per week to €305 per week for a maximum of 2 weeks medically-required self-isolation or for the full duration of absence from work following a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 (Coronavirus)</li><li>the normal social insurance requirements for <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/ddf6e3-illness-benefit/" target="_blank">Illness Benefit</a> will be changed or the means test for <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/36e514-supplementary-welfare-allowance/" target="_blank">Supplementary Welfare Allowance</a> will be removed</li></ul>You can access public health advice about COVID-19 (Coronavirus) at the<a href="https://www.gov.ie/coronavirus/" target="_blank"> government&#x27;s information page.</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/pdf/71251/?page=1" target="_blank">See our quick guide If you are an employee or self-employed and feel you may have COVID-19, or may need to self-isolate as a result of COVID-19</a>Government has now urged all employers to support national public health objectives by continuing, as a minimum, to pay employees who cannot attend work due to Covid-19 illness or self-isolation the difference between the enhanced Illness Benefit rate and their normal wages.This may be achieved through the employer considering a range of flexible working arrangements with their employees such as:<ul><li>compassionate leave</li><li>allowing the employee to work remotely</li><li>allowing the staff member to ‘work-up’ any time taken at a future date</li><li>allowing the employee to avail of annual leave entitlements</li><li>rearranging parental leave</li></ul>A number of income supports are available from the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection for people whose employers do not continue to pay them during a COVID-19 (Coronavirus) related absence or temporary lay-off from work.In considering how to respond to questions arising as a consequence of Covid-19 employers and employees are directed in the first instance to the public health advice issued by the HSE, available on their website <a href="https://www.hse.ie/eng/" target="_blank">www.HSE.ie</a>. It is essential that all individuals and employers abide by this advice.<a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/aa51ba-who-the-enhanced-arrangements-are-intended-to-serve/" target="_blank">Who the enhanced arrangements are intended to support (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/11a04c-availability-of-the-enhanced-payment/" target="_blank">Availability of the enhanced payment (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/6f81e1-people-who-are-diagnosed-with-covid-19/" target="_blank">Workers who are diagnosed with COVID-19.</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/b8135c-people-who-are-not-diagnosed-with-covid-19-but-who-self-isolate/" target="_blank">Workers who are not diagnosed with COVID-19 but who self-isolate.</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/a503ee-people-whose-employers-do-not-supplementtop-up-the-state-illness-ben/" target="_blank">Workers whose employers do not supplement/top-up the State Illness Benefit payment (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/fc829c-people-who-are-requested-to-stay-at-home-by-their-employer/" target="_blank">Workers who are requested to stay at home by their employer (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/00964f-people-who-are-laid-off-temporarily-or-put-on-to-short-time-working/" target="_blank">Workers who are laid off temporarily or put on to short time working (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/dffde6-people-who-need-to-take-time-off-work-to-care-for-a-person-affected-/" target="_blank">Workers who need to take time off work to care for a person affected by COVID-19 (Coronavirus).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/1c3354-people-already-in-receipt-of-social-welfare-payments/" target="_blank">People already in receipt of Social Welfare Payments (COVID-19).</a><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/" target="_blank">How to apply for Illness Benefit for COVID-19 absences</a><h2><a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/service/df55ae-how-to-apply-for-illness-benefit-for-covid-19-absences/" target="_blank"></a>Further information on COVID-19 (Coronavirus)</h2>The department is committed to providing information and updates as the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation evolves. We recommend that you check this page and our <a href="https://twitter.com/welfare_ie" target="_blank">Twitter page </a>for regular updates.Employment rights information is available from the <a href="https://www.workplacerelations.ie/en/" target="_blank">Workplace Relations Commission.</a><img src="https://jobalert-blog-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/image/Untitled-4.jpg222.jpg" style="max-width:calc(100% - 1.6rem);margin:1.6rem 0.8rem 2.4rem"/>Source: <a href="https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/99104a-covid-19-coronavirus/" target="_blank">gov.ie</a>Related Reading:<a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/package-of-supports-for-businesses-impacted-by-covid-19" target="_blank">Package of supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/article/covid-19-sick-pay-support-for-small-business-owners" target="_blank">Covid-19 Sick Pay &amp; Support for Small Business Owners</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/coronavirus-vaccine-volunteers-offered-3-500-to-be-infected-with-" target="_blank">Coronavirus vaccine: Volunteers offered £3,500 to be infected with the bug</a><a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/coronavirus-vaccine-volunteers-offered-3-500-to-be-infected-with-" target="_blank"></a>

Short term work support available to those affected by COV-19 restrictions

The Government acknowledges that it&#x27;s a worrying time for businesses and wants to provide assurance that help and support will be available through this rapidly evolving situation. The range of supports include;<ul><li>A €200m Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) Working Capital scheme for eligible businesses impacted by COVID-19. Loans of up to €1.5m will be available at reduced rates, with up to the first €500,000 unsecured. Applications can be made through the SBCI website.</li><li>A €200m Package for Enterprise Supports including a Rescue and Restructuring Scheme available through Enterprise Ireland for vulnerable but viable firms that need to restructure or transform their business. </li><li>The maximum loan available from MicroFinance Ireland will be increased from €25,000 to €50,000 as an immediate measure to specifically deal with exceptional circumstances that micro-enterprises – (sole traders and firms with up to 9 employees) - are facing. Applications can be made through the MFI website or through your local LEO.</li><li>The Credit Guarantee Scheme will be available to COVID-19 impacted firms through the Pillar Banks. Loans of up to €1m will be available at terms of up to 7 years. </li></ul>The following supports are for firms experiencing trading difficulties and short-term shocks:<ul><li>The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation will provide a joint First Responder support service through the Intreo Offices and development agencies, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland in each region to provide tailored supports for impacted firms, with objective of avoiding mass lay-offs and buying time for firms to work through the short-term disruptions.</li><li>Firms that need to reduce hours or days worked can avail of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection Short Term Work Support by contacting their local Intreo Office, see gov.ie/en/service/c20e1b-short-time-work-support.</li><li>The full range of Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Local Enterprise Office and Údarás na Gaeltachta grant supports will be available to firms to help with strategies to innovate, diversify markets and supply chains and to improve competitiveness. </li></ul>A Finance in Focus grant of €7,200 will be available to Enterprise Ireland and Údarás na Gaeltachta clients that want to access consultancy support to undertake immediate finance reviews.In addition, Local Enterprise Offices in every county will be providing vouchers from €2,500 up to €10,000 (with 50:50 match funding) to support business continuity preparedness, innovation and productivity. I encourage businesses to take advantage of these supports.”The Minister also welcomed the package of reforms for sick pay, illness benefit and supplementary benefit that is designed to ensure that employees and the self-employed can abide by medical advice to self-isolate where appropriate.To be eligible for the SBCI COVID19 Working Capital Scheme, businesses must satisfy one of the COVID 19 criteria and one of the innovation criteria set out for the scheme. There is a broad suite of innovation criteria and this offers a wide range of opportunity for businesses to engage in the scheme. Guidelines will be provided on the SBCI website to help businesses determine if they are eligible for the scheme.The Department through its development agencies will continue to provide information support and to business on Continuity Planning Checklist, which includes a practical checklist as well as links to relevant COVID-19 advice developed in conjunction with the HSE and Department of Health.Enterprise Ireland will provide an online portal of advice and business continuity tools and webinars for business.Enterprise Ireland with the Local Enterprise Offices will activate advisory clinics and mentoring support for impacted firms.DEASP and the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) are coordinating information for employees and employers on their rights and responsibilities in the case of employees being absent from work due to isolation and/or infection.Minister Humphreys is engaging with business representative bodies through the Enterprise Forum on COVID-19, which met today.The Department is leading across government and with key stakeholders to ensure continuity of food supply and Minister Humphreys is chairing a forum of large retail multiples, retail representative bodies and grocery distributors and food manufacturers.The Department is working with the European Commission on additional changes to State Aid de minimis rules that may be required to ensure the enterprise development agencies can respond effectively.Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI)The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation (DBEI) plays a key role in implementing the Government’s policies of stimulating the productive capacity of the economy and creating an environment which supports job creation and maintenance. The Department has lead responsibility for Irish policy on global trade and inward investment and a remit to promote fair competition in the marketplace, protect consumers and safeguard workers.In the meantime if you need support or help finding temporary or replacement staff please call JobAlert.ie on 01 8495003 we will help you in whatever way we can.More information available: <a href="https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/March/10032020.html" target="_blank">https://dbei.gov.ie/en/News-And-Events/Department-News/2020/March/10032020.html</a>

Package of supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19

BREAKING NEWS! Covid-19 Sick Pay &amp; Support for Small Business Owners in Ireland! Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has just announced emergency legislation to cover Covid-19 issues; These include; Emergency sick pay, if needed for people who have to quarantine for 2 weeks if showing symptoms. They will waive the normal conditions that apply i.e. so it will be paid immediately when required. The amount paid will be raised to €305 a week + an additional amount for dependents. Self-employed people will also be eligible. A fund will also be approved to support small businesses that are affected by Covid-19 issues - this will come from a fund that was set aside for Brexit issues. Some €430m in extra funds has been agreed for the HSE while two tranches of €200m will be transferred across from Brexit emergency funds to fight the virus and help businesses.A total package €3bn is being set aside, Mr Varadkar said, as he also said the government had the capacity to borrow. More to be announced.Yesterday it was reported that;The issue of sick pay for workers affected by Covid-19 would be discussed today when the Cabinet Sub-Committee chaired by the Taoiseach convened. On Friday, government officials met representatives of employers and unions to discuss possible mechanisms to ensure income support for workers who either contract the virus or are forced the self-isolate for up to 14 days on a precautionary basis.It is feared that workers who do not have contractual sick pay entitlements and who cannot afford loss of income will refuse to take time off, and will risk spreading the virus by presenting for work while ill or infected. Following Friday&#x27;s consultation no further follow-up meetings with those bodies took place over the weekend, but the issue has been described as a &quot;key priority&quot;.According to one source who attended Friday&#x27;s meeting, there was general consensus that the first priority was to make sure employees got paid.The source said the second key issue was how to facilitate, while the third was how to afford it. Another complicating factor mentioned by several sources is that some possible mechanisms to permit financial transfers to workers could require legislation in order to enable them - and that would be difficult and slow particularly given the current lack of a government.The Cabinet Sub-Committee is also expected to receive a comprehensive briefing on &quot;necessary public health responses&quot; as well as advice on &quot;mitigations and contingencies&quot; for various sectors. Related reading: <a href="https://www.jobalert.ie/blog/coronavirus-vaccine-volunteers-offered-3-500-to-be-infected-with-" target="_blank">Coronavirus vaccine: Volunteers offered £3,500 to be infected with the bug </a>

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