Welfare customers in Level 4 urged to use online services

Over 95% of people who applied for PUP this week did so online, ensuring that the payment can be processed quickly.

After Cavan, Monaghan and Donegal moved to Level 4, the Social Protection Minister, Heather Humphreys T.D., reminded people in these counties to avail of welfare services online.

Due to the restrictions, which come into effect last week, the opening hours of Intreo Offices are being reduced.

People applying for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) or a Jobseeker’s Payment at www.MyWelfare.ie, rather than making an unnecessary visit in person to their Intreo Centre or social welfare branch office.

Over 95% of people who applied for PUP this week did so online, ensuring that the payment can be processed quickly.

People who are diagnosed with the Covid-19 virus or who have to self-isolate and are medically certified by their doctor, also have the option of applying for the Enhanced Illness Benefit online at www.MyWelfare.ie.

Commenting, Minister Humphreys said: “In the interests of the public health advice and observing social distancing, I am asking people, if at all possible, not to attend their local Intreo Centre or social welfare office. Instead, they should avail of the online services available through www.MyWelfare.ie. This is the quickest and easiest way to apply. It is also the quickest and most efficient way for the Department to process the applications and is the safest option for our customers and our staff.”

Minister Humphreys added: “It is essential that all of us follow the advice from NPHET. I am asking everyone of all ages who has a social welfare enquiry not to choose to visit their social welfare office. My Department’s telephone helpline is also available at the cost of a local call, and the officials will guide and advise callers from 9.00am to 5.00pm every day, Monday to Friday. I particularly want to thank our customers who have moved to use the online service and for respecting public health advice. It is up to each one of us to take the measures now in place under Level 4 extremely seriously if we are to suppress the virus. Together, we can do it.”

Intreo Centre – Dublin Road, Tullymongan Upper, Cavan: Open to the public from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm daily, Monday to Friday.

Branch Offices – Ballyconnell, Carrickmacross, Castleblaney and Monaghan town: Open to the public from 9.30am to 12.30pm daily, Monday to Friday.

To contact the Department of Social Protection by phone, the helpline number is 1890 800 024, from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday.