Jobseeker's Benefit (JB) is paid by the Department of Social Protection to people who become unemployed and have sufficient PRSI contributions. It replaced the older Unemployment Benefit name but the structure is the same: you paid in through PRSI while working, and this is the payment you receive when you lose your job.
JB is paid for either 6 months or 9 months depending on how many PRSI contributions you have paid. When it ends, it stops automatically. If you are still unemployed, you can move to Jobseeker's Allowance — but you need to apply for it yourself. There is no automatic transfer.
What is Jobseeker's Benefit?
How it works, who it is for, and how it differs from Jobseeker's Allowance
PRSI contributions explained
The 104-week rule, qualifying contributions, relevant tax years
Payment rates 2026
Weekly rates, qualified adult, child increases, earnings-related bands
How long does it last?
9 months vs 6 months — what determines it and the 3-day wait
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