Government Benefits Megathread

24-03-2020 6:59pm

AdrianG08 wrote: »

Thats incorrect. The energency payment is distinct from the 70% payment that maintains the link with employer. John does not have a job to return to.

Rather than sniping back, do your research.

For what its worth, the 350euro payment to those still linked to their employer during temp layoff is a fantastic idea.

He does still have a job to return to, though. €350 means he won't be scrambling to find another job in the mean time, thus leaving the employer stuck when things start to get moving again.

AdrianG08 · 24-03-2020 7:02pm

[Deleted User] wrote: »

He does still have a job to return to, though. €350 means he won't be scrambling to find another job in the mean time, thus leaving the employer stuck when things start to get moving again.

Again, do your research. 2 separate payments. 1 for those still linked to employer (employer pays and can claim back).

2, separate emergency payment to those who lost their job due to Covid 19. Where employment has ended. Kaput.

You are getting mixed up I think.

dinky earnshaw · 24-03-2020 7:04pm

Is the covid 19 payment still for a six week period ?

dublinbando · 24-03-2020 7:05pm

dinky earnshaw wrote: »

Is the covid 19 payment still for a six week period ?

12 weeks now.

dublinbando · 24-03-2020 7:05pm

I don't understand why Back to Education allowance is getting the bump to 350 but JSA/JSB isn't &#55358;&#56596;

YFlyer · 24-03-2020 7:07pm

AdrianG08 wrote: »

Very unfair.

Those on JSB should be able to avail of higher payment also in this instance. Those losing a job through no fault of their own in the last 3 months are suffering same financial hardship.

Everyones financial circumstances change when they lose a job, and those suffering due to Covid19 should not be getting more than someone who lost a job in Feb of this year for instance (and they have built up sufficient PRSI contributions).

You could have the following ridiculous scenario:

John is 1 month in to a 3 month contract working in a coffee shop (started on 1st March). He is let go 2 weeks later. John can claim €350 due to Covid19.

Sean has worked in a factory for 18 months and is let go in late february, he can only claim €203 (despite having built up the requisite PRSI contributions).

John working in the coffee shop. His normal wage is €250 pw. Would he get the €350 or less?

threeball · 24-03-2020 7:09pm

AdrianG08 wrote: »

Again, do your research. 2 separate payments. 1 for those still linked to employer (employer pays and can claim back).

2, separate emergency payment to those who lost their job due to Covid 19. Where employment has ended. Kaput.

You are getting mixed up I think.

The reality is most of those that avail of the 350 payment will return to their employer. Most employers are not in a position to pay the 30% required to have their employees kept for 12 weeks or more

AdrianG08 · 24-03-2020 7:10pm

YFlyer wrote: »

John working in the coffee shop. His normal wage is €250 pw. Would he get the €350 or less?

This hasnt been clarified

whatawaster · 24-03-2020 7:11pm

It's a little confusing for incomes between €38,000 and €76,000 it says they qualify for €350 maximum. Is this on top of the €410 or instead of. Wording is quite confusing

"An eligible employer will be supported up to 70% of an employee’s take home income up to a maximum weekly tax free payment of €410 (i.e. 70% of take home weekly income of €38,000 per anuum).

The scheme will provide support on incomes up to €76,000 or twice average earnings. It will be capped at net €350 for incomes between €38,000 and €76,000.

The employer is expected to make best efforts to maintain as close to 100% of normal income as possible for the subsidised period.

Revenue will provide further guidance on operation of the scheme.

There will be severe penalties for any abuse of the scheme."

AdrianG08 · 24-03-2020 7:15pm

threeball wrote: »

The reality is most of those that avail of the 350 payment will return to their employer. Most employers are not in a position to pay the 30% required to have their employees kept for 12 weeks or more

In theory, but there absolutely no guarantees on this. As someone mentioned, back to education has been bumped to 350 also, its crazy. I get it that its not a good look to just bump all welfare to new rate of 350, but theres a difference between some on JSB, recently out of work with requisite PRSI contributions, and someone claiming means tested JSA for the entirety of their working life.

24-03-2020 7:17pm

AdrianG08 wrote: »

Again, do your research. 2 separate payments. 1 for those still linked to employer (employer pays and can claim back).

2, separate emergency payment to those who lost their job due to Covid 19. Where employment has ended. Kaput.

You are getting mixed up I think.

I'm not getting mixed up, but I can see where we're going wrong.

I mean informally. There may not be an official bond between the employer/employee, but the employee getting €350 will keep them out of the intreo office and ready to go back to work.

You're correct in saying it's not an official/formal connection. I was talking more in a common sense/day-to-day-life kind of way.

Ultimately it's still good news, all-round, in my opinion.

Beasty · 24-03-2020 7:19pm

Threads merged

AdrianG08 · 24-03-2020 7:27pm

[Deleted User] wrote: »

I'm not getting mixed up, but I can see where we're going wrong.

I mean informally. There may not be an official bond between the employer/employee, but the employee getting €350 will keep them out of the intreo office and ready to go back to work.

You're correct in saying it's not an official/formal connection. I was talking more in a common sense/day-to-day-life kind of way.

Ultimately it's still good news, all-round, in my opinion.

Its good news yes, depending on which side of the fence you fall. Currently its a 2 tier welfare system.

chooey · 24-03-2020 7:29pm

I'm just wondering would anyone be able to answer my query. I've handed in my notice 8 weeks ago ( have to give 10 weeks notice). I am finishing up in my current role in two weeks time and am meant to be starting my new role at the beginning of May. My role is listed as an essential role and we have to work from a clinic so cannot work from home. If there is any delay in starting my new job, would I be able to claim benefits for the couple of weeks until I do start? I'm not sure if it will even be an issue but I just want to forward plan. Thanks for your help

dublinbando · 24-03-2020 7:56pm

johnire wrote: »

Just wondering if anyone can help me with a question I have. I work 3 days a week and get 2 days per week through the Jobseekers.
I’m now temporarily laid off completely so will the Jobseekers be frozen and this Covid 19 payment take over? I know I’ll have to apply for it. Thanks.

You will need to contact your local intreo centre and they will most likely put you on the covid payment.

recyclebin · 24-03-2020 8:00pm

The devil will be in the detail. No one has any answer to most of the questions asked above until they see the fine print of the scheme.

The_Brood · 24-03-2020 8:24pm

I am indeed glad that people will receive help, but...I am still working full time, from home now, and I barely get paid more than that weekly. A little bit more, but not by much. While continuing to work full time. That makes a complete mockery of my efforts.

mariaalice · 24-03-2020 8:34pm

The_Brood wrote: »

I am indeed glad that people will receive help, but...I am still working full time, from home now, and I barely get paid more than that weekly. A little bit more, but not by much. While continuing to work full time. That makes a complete mockery of my efforts.

No it doesn't your reply is nonsense, you have a job.

A bit of social solidarity.

The_Brood · 24-03-2020 8:40pm

mariaalice wrote: »

No it doesn't your reply is nonsense, you have a job.

A bit of social solidarity.

But so I am expected to work and put in all the hours, but barely make more than those who aren't working?

I would be 100% happier taking the slight drop in payments and just not work right now. Should I choose that?

Frank12 · 24-03-2020 8:45pm

Hi, I finished up work on the 13th of March , I had being with my employer for 2 years , I was due to immigrate abroad on March 29th , visa and flights booked and paid for ... that has since being cancelled due to shut borders etc and my previous employer has no job for me to return to due to the uncertainty and closures , can I claim the unemployment payment ? Hoping this is a short term thing as I’m actively looking for work

johnmc2020 · 24-03-2020 8:46pm

The_Brood wrote: »

But so I am expected to work and put in all the hours, but barely make more than those who aren't working?

I would be 100% happier taking the slight drop in payments and just not work right now. Should I choose that?

but if you're not laid off then you can't get the payment? or are you self employed?

mariaalice · 24-03-2020 8:46pm

The_Brood wrote: »

But so I am expected to work and put in all the hours, but barely make more than those who aren't working?

I would be 100% happier taking the slight drop in payments and just not work right now. Should I choose that?

You would not get it if you choose to leave work, it for those made unemployed because of covid 19.

d51984 · 24-03-2020 8:49pm

Did anyone get paid today?

Rodin · 24-03-2020 8:53pm

Ive always thought unemployment benefit should be relative to income tax/prsi paid. Those who contribute more should get more back. Many will disagree

Sam Quentin · 24-03-2020 8:56pm

d51984 wrote: »

Did anyone get paid today?

Yes I know of one friend and he said his wife's friend also got paid.

Kewreeuss · 24-03-2020 8:57pm

I don't understand the wage subsidy scheme.
Is it that I am working 2 days instead of 5, the boss continues to pay me full wages and can claim back 350? or 70% of the 3 days pay?

Frank12 · 24-03-2020 8:59pm

I finished up work a week ago and I was due to immigrate on the 29th of March(with my employer 2 years) , flights , visa paid for etc , that has being cancelled obviously due to shut borders etc . My previous employer cannot take me back as he has gone quite and laid people off due to the virus. Am I entitled to the unemployment ?

d51984 · 24-03-2020 9:05pm

Just download and print the form, fill it out and freepost it off.

They seem to be flying through them now.

Beasty · 24-03-2020 9:21pm

Beasty wrote: »

Threads merged

Guess what...

BarryD2 · 24-03-2020 9:30pm

Has anyone figured out how these government supports relate to the self employed?

All I can see is the criteria for eligibility - "have ceased trading if self-employed due to the pandemic"

Some self employed will see a total cessation of income but many others will be in situation of partial but reduced income.

What does 'cease trading' mean in this context? Does the business have to cease trading altogether and how will that work as regards accounts for the year. Will there have be two profit & loss periods reported. About as clear as mud in terms of government info.

coolshannagh28 · 24-03-2020 9:32pm

I would expect the government website to clarify these matters overnight.

Santy2015 · 24-03-2020 9:33pm

Wife got the €203 today will she get the extra €147 on top of this or will it €350 from here on in? Looks like she’ll be out for the 12 week duration..

BarryD2 · 24-03-2020 9:38pm

coolshannagh28 wrote: »

I would expect the government website to clarify these matters overnight.

I hope so, because it's one thing for the government to state that self employed will be included.. but in practice it's quite a complicated decision for many self employed and particularly those whose income stream is variable.

This will extend to many farming enterprises as well who will see reductions say in beef sales but not a complete wipe out.

24-03-2020 9:59pm

BarryD2 wrote: »

Has anyone figured out how these government supports relate to the self employed?

All I can see is the criteria for eligibility - "have ceased trading if self-employed due to the pandemic"

Some self employed will see a total cessation of income but many others will be in situation of partial but reduced income.

What does 'cease trading' mean in this context? Does the business have to cease trading altogether and how will that work as regards accounts for the year. Will there have be two profit & loss periods reported. About as clear as mud in terms of government info.

I'm wondering the same. In my case it looks like my work will slow to a trickle, but I want to be able to serve my clients again when this is over. The information today seems very black and white.

rahmalec · 24-03-2020 10:00pm

BarryD2 wrote: »

I hope so, because it's one thing for the government to state that self employed will be included.. but in practice it's quite a complicated decision for many self employed and particularly those whose income stream is variable.

This will extend to many farming enterprises as well who will see reductions say in beef sales but not a complete wipe out.

Ya I'm wondering too.

I have a portfolio career of loads of random bits and pieces coming from a variety of sources. Mostly as sole trader, some paye and have my own company as well. All I have left is 2 and a half hours teaching a week (paid as paye). Everything else has ground to a halt.

kerrycork13 · 24-03-2020 10:18pm

I think it is very odd that community employment healthcare workers hours are not extended from 19.5 hrs a week. It would be very easy to put those on full hours for the duration of this crisis without being penalised as they are doing great work, putting there own health in danger and that of their loved ones at home all for 225. Euro. Would love to know what people think as regards this. And yes I am one of them and would love to help more than I am.

coolshannagh28 · 24-03-2020 10:21pm

BarryD2 wrote: »

I hope so, because it's one thing for the government to state that self employed will be included.. but in practice it's quite a complicated decision for many self employed and particularly those whose income stream is variable.

This will extend to many farming enterprises as well who will see reductions say in beef sales but not a complete wipe out.

You can rest assured that the actual taxpayers will have the most hoops to jump through

theWebAdvisor · 24-03-2020 10:23pm

BarryD2 wrote: »

Has anyone figured out how these government supports relate to the self employed?

All I can see is the criteria for eligibility - "have ceased trading if self-employed due to the pandemic"

Some self employed will see a total cessation of income but many others will be in situation of partial but reduced income.

What does 'cease trading' mean in this context? Does the business have to cease trading altogether and how will that work as regards accounts for the year. Will there have be two profit & loss periods reported. About as clear as mud in terms of government info.

This line seems to have only been inserted today, it was originally lost income/employment.
If taken literally it will have a very big impact on the ability of the self employed to get up and running again post this emergency. If you are to completely cease trading you would need to,
1. Inform and de-register with Revenue.
2. CRO need to be informed, companies struck off, even business names ceased.
That is on top of the accounts issues above.
In addition if any of your business is driven by search engines, site would need to come down or at least a cessation page, this will have the effect of losing your rankings, leaves you at square one again, this alone will wipe out my ability to get back up and running quickly.
Needs clarification, hopefully some one posted it without fully thinking through and will be clarified.

morrga · 24-03-2020 10:24pm

Kewreeuss wrote: »

I don't understand the wage subsidy scheme.
Is it that I am working 2 days instead of 5, the boss continues to pay me full wages and can claim back 350? or 70% of the 3 days pay?

You hours worked should equal a pro rata of salary received. So if you receive 70% of salary and employer doesn’t top it up then work 70% of the hours you are contracted to on full pay.

The_Brood · 24-03-2020 10:34pm

mariaalice wrote: »

You would not get it if you choose to leave work, it for those made unemployed because of covid 19.

So really I am in the worst position in all of this. I have to work, but all the work that I put in barely makes any more money than if I lost my job and was not working.

plodder · 24-03-2020 10:36pm

Flying Fox wrote: »

I'm wondering the same. In my case it looks like my work will slow to a trickle, but I want to be able to serve my clients again when this is over. The information today seems very black and white.

Same for my OH. It seems strange that she would have to turn any bit of work away (not that she's had any for the last two weeks anyway) to qualify.

bigboss1986 · 24-03-2020 10:43pm

I was put on 3 days week due to downturn in business because Covid19 so I will I be getting 2 days from 203 or 350?Very confusing.
My work place is not esential by any means but they still keep us in the offices with public coming

Frank12 · 24-03-2020 10:43pm

Do you get an confirmation email/text to acknowledge your application or if your application was processed ?

Kewreeuss · 24-03-2020 10:50pm

morrga wrote: »

You hours worked should equal a pro rata of salary received. So if you receive 70% of salary and employer doesn’t top it up then work 70% of the hours you are contracted to on full pay.

I still don't understand. what does the employer claim back then if he's paying me only for the days I'm working?

easypazz · 24-03-2020 10:51pm

Frank12 wrote: »

Do you get an confirmation email/text to acknowledge your application or if your application was processed ?

I have not heard anything yet. Applied Friday. Some people have said they got it into bank after 4 days, so I guess that is confirmation of sorts.

Meglamonia · 24-03-2020 10:53pm

Anyone able to tell me if I was self employed and was unable to work due to the coronavirus can I still apply for the emergency payment even while on a state pension?

Jinglejangle69 · 24-03-2020 10:58pm

The_Brood wrote: »

So really I am in the worst position in all of this. I have to work, but all the work that I put in barely makes any more money than if I lost my job and was not working.

What are you on about??

Were all in this together.

What about the minimum pay workers slaving it out in meat factories and food processing plants to keep us fed during this crisis. Putting them and their family at risk.

And youre giving out you have to work at home.

You selfish tosser.

Ireland doesn't need people like you at the moment.

24-03-2020 10:59pm

Just looking for help from other self employed people who have applied for the emergency payment, how did you fill out the form? I see no option for "self employed" on it, just asking for employers details. Work has totally dried up completely.

mwv · 24-03-2020 11:09pm

The_Brood wrote: »

So really I am in the worst position in all of this. I have to work, but all the work that I put in barely makes any more money than if I lost my job and was not working.

The people who are getting this support didn't choose to "just not work right now". They have lost their job and all the security that goes with that. A lot of businesses will not survive the next couple of months, there is no guarantee of their old employment at the other side of this. It is a short term measure to give people a liveable wage without having to apply for HAP/rent supplement. Be grateful your area of work is likely to continue through the crisis, and furthermore, you are not front line and can do so from the comfort of your home.

I can't imagine you would be saying this was unfair if you were facing the fear and uncertainty that goes with losing your job.

morrga · 24-03-2020 11:11pm

The_Brood wrote: »

So really I am in the worst position in all of this. I have to work, but all the work that I put in barely makes any more money than if I lost my job and was not working.

Have some dignity.

Government Benefits Megathread

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