How to get your PPS Number

What is a PPS Number?

Your Personal Public Service (PPS) Number is a unique reference number given to you that helps you access social welfare benefits and public services in Ireland. It also ensures you won’t be taxed at the high ’emergency tax’ rate on your income.  In Ireland PPS numbers are only available directly from the Department of Social Protection.  You can start the application process here.

I’m applying for a PPS Number – What do I need to do?

To get a PPS Number you must make an appointment at your local PPS Number allocation office.

Allocation of PPS numbers happens by face-to-face interview. However, you can book an appointment for a PPS number allocation interview before you move to Ireland.

To schedule your appointment with the Department of Social Welfare, click here.

If you are in the process of moving to Ireland, remember you should attend the PPS Number Allocation Centre in the county that you intend to live in.

If you have any other queries, you can contact the Department of Social Protection at cis@welfare.ie or +353 1 7043281.

I’m moving to Ireland- When will I receive my PPS Number?

Depending on where you intend to live, the waiting time for an appointment will vary. Busier urban centres and cities will naturally have longer waiting times. We always recommend booking your appointment even if you haven’t yet arrived in Ireland.

Following your appointment it will take approximately 4-5 days for your notification of your PPS number to arrive in the post.

If you are relocating to Ireland to pursue a contract role and have any queries or questions regarding accountancy and tax solutions for contractors, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 01 611 0707.

What documents will I need to bring with me?

Proof that you require a PPS number (your contract offer or assignment letter will be suitable as proof. If you come up against any challenges in this regard, contact your Dedicated Account Manager in Contracting PLUS).

Photo ID. A valid passport works in all cases, though in some cases a national identity card may suffice.

Proof of Address. The proof of address document must show your name and address and must be dated in the last 3 months. Acceptable proof of address documents include;

• A household bill
• An official letter/document
• A financial statement
• Property lease or tenancy agreement
• Confirmation of address by a third party such as a hotel/hostel administrator or manager, school principal/administrator or accommodation/property owner. (If you are staying with friends or relatives, an original household bill plus a note from the bill holder confirming your residency at the bill address is acceptable. This note can be written on the bill itself).

Can I get a PPS number if I’m not living in Ireland?

Yes. In some cases you can apply for a PPS number without attending a face-to-face interview (though note that the process is likely to take considerably longer and you still have to prove you need a PPS number).

You can begin this process by completing the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection online form.

Also note that this exceptional application process is not available to those that are already living in Ireland or intend to relocate to Ireland for any period of time.

If you are living in Northern Ireland or the U.K. and are working in the Republic of Ireland, you must apply for a PPS number in the normal way by booking a face-to-face interview.

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