Do children need a PSC?
Most children do not need a PSC in day-to-day life. However, there are specific circumstances where a child's PSC becomes relevant — primarily for accessing social welfare payments made in a child's name, or for future use when they need access to MyGovID or DSP services as they approach adulthood.
When a child's PSC is commonly needed
- Claiming a social welfare payment that is paid in the child's name
- Accessing certain DSP family services
- When the child turns 16 and needs to start engaging with government services independently
How to apply for a child's PSC
A parent or legal guardian applies on behalf of a child under 16. Both the parent/guardian and the child must attend the SAFE appointment. For children aged 16 and over, they can attend alone.
Documents needed for the appointment
- Child's passport or birth certificate
- Child's PPS number
- Parent/guardian's PSC or identity document
- Proof that the adult is the legal parent or guardian (birth certificate usually serves this purpose)
- Proof of address
Child's PPS number firstThe child must have a PPS number before the SAFE appointment. Children born in Irish hospitals are often assigned a PPS number automatically. Check the birth registration documentation or contact DSP if you are unsure.
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