Work and tax
Employment — being put on payroll
Every employer in Ireland requires your PPS number before they can add you to payroll and pay you legally.
Revenue registration — income tax and PRSI
Revenue uses your PPS number to link all your tax records, PAYE credits, and PRSI contributions together across your working life.
Tax refunds
Any tax refund from Revenue is processed and issued using your PPS number.
Social welfare and housing
Jobseeker's Allowance and Benefit
Applications for unemployment payments require a PPS number to process.
Housing Assistance Payment (HAP)
You cannot apply for HAP without a PPS number for yourself and all adults in your household.
Social housing applications
All local authority housing list applications require a PPS number.
Rent Supplement
Applying for Rent Supplement from the Department of Social Protection requires a PPS number.
Child Benefit
Child Benefit payments require the PPS numbers of both the parent claiming and each child being claimed for.
Healthcare and education
Medical card and GP visit card
Applications for medical cards or GP visit cards require a PPS number.
HSE health services
Registering with the HSE, accessing specialist care, and many hospital services require a PPS number.
Enrolling in school
Primary and secondary schools require each child's PPS number for enrolment and state exams.
Third-level grants (SUSI)
SUSI student grants require a PPS number to process and pay.
National Childcare Scheme
Subsidised childcare through the NCS requires PPS numbers for both the parent and each child.
Banking, driving, and other
Bank account opening
Most Irish banks require a PPS number to open a current account.
Driving licence application or exchange
NDLS requires a PPS number to apply for or exchange a driving licence in Ireland.
Irish citizenship application
The naturalisation process requires a PPS number.
Related PPS guides
Need help with an Irish form?
Photograph it and get guidance in your language — free, no account needed.
Scan my form →