Key takeaway
If you are unable to work due to illness, you may be entitled to Illness Benefit from the Department of Social Protection. A doctor's certificate is required from the first day of illness.
Key things to know
- Illness Benefit is not paid for the first 3 days of illness.
- You need a medical certificate from your GP for every week you are off sick.
- PRSI contributions are required — generally 104 paid contributions and 39 in the governing year.
- Illness Benefit lasts up to 2 years. Long-term illness may lead to Invalidity Pension instead.
- Your employer may pay sick pay for some or all of the waiting period — check your contract.
What Is Illness Benefit?
Illness Benefit is a weekly payment from the Department of Social Protection for employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury. It is funded by PRSI contributions and is paid for up to 2 years (104 weeks), after which you may apply for the Invalidity Pension if your illness is long-term.
PRSI Requirements
To qualify, you generally need:
- At least 104 weeks of Class A PRSI contributions, and
- 39 weeks of PRSI paid in the governing contribution year
See our PRSI guide for more detail on contribution classes and records.
Payment Rate
The rate (2025) is approximately €232 per week for a single adult — check mywelfare.ie for current rates. Increases may be payable for qualified adults (dependants). Illness Benefit is taxable.
Statutory Sick Pay
Before Illness Benefit kicks in, your employer must pay statutory sick pay for the first 5 days of illness per year, at 70% of normal pay (capped daily). Illness Benefit covers days from day 4 onwards (the first 3 days are "waiting days" and are not paid by either your employer or the DSP, unless your employer covers them voluntarily). Check your employment contract — many employers pay full sick pay for a period, which removes the gap.
Medical Certificates
You must have a medical certificate (IB1 form) from your GP from the very first day of illness. Your GP sends the certificate electronically to the DSP. For illness lasting longer than a week, your GP provides ongoing weekly certificates. Keep your GP informed of your condition and ensure certificates are submitted on time to avoid payment gaps.
How to Apply
Apply at mywelfare.ie using a MyGovID account, or submit a paper application (IB1) available from your GP or Intreo Centre. Apply within 6 weeks of becoming ill — late applications may result in reduced payments. Your employer must also be notified of your illness.
Official Sources
Sources: gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, mywelfare.ie
General guidance only. Always verify with official sources — gov.ie, citizensinformation.ie, hse.ie.