Getting a PPS number is an essential step for anyone living or working in Ireland. A Personal Public Service (PPS) number is your unique reference for accessing public services, social benefits, and even employment opportunities. Whether you’re an Irish citizen, a newcomer to Ireland, or applying for your child, the process involves providing proof of identity, address, and the reason you need it.
While it might seem challenging, this blog simplifies the steps and documents required, ensuring a smooth application process. From understanding what qualifies as proof to knowing where to apply, this guide covers everything you need to know about securing your PPS number with ease.
What is a Personal Public Service (PPS) Number?
Your Personal Public Service (PPS) number is a unique identifier consisting of seven numbers followed by one or two letters. This reference is crucial for accessing services such as social welfare benefits, employment registration, and other public services in Ireland.
Often referred to as a PPSN, it acts as a secure way to manage personal records for various government schemes. You automatically have a PPS number if you were born in Ireland or after 1971, began working after 1979, or are availing of social welfare benefits like the Drugs Payment Scheme.
How Do I Get PPS Number in Ireland?
Getting a PPS number is essential for both adults and children in Ireland. The process differs slightly depending on whether the application is for an adult or a child. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what’s needed.
For Adults
Adults over 18 can apply for a PPS number online through MyWelfare.ie. To begin, you must be living in Ireland and have a basic MyGovID account. During the application, you will need to upload:
- A copy of your photo ID, such as a passport or driving license.
- Proof of why you need a PPS number, such as an employment offer or a social welfare document.
- Proof of your address, such as a recent utility bill or tenancy agreement.
Once your application is submitted online, the Department of Social Protection (DSP) will schedule an in-person appointment to finalise the process.
If you are outside Ireland and need a PPS number for official reasons like probate, you can apply through the DSP’s Client Identity Services (CIS).
For Children
Children under 18 are assigned a PPS number automatically if their birth is registered with the General Register Office (GRO) within three months. If not, or if the child was born outside Ireland but resides here, parents or guardians must apply for the number.
You are required to apply for a child’s PPS number if:
- The child’s birth is not registered within three months.
- The child is born in Ireland, but both parents’ addresses are outside Ireland.
- The child is living in Ireland but was not born there.
At least one parent or guardian must have a PPS number to register the child and link their information.
To apply for a child’s PPS number, parents or guardians need to complete the REG1M form and provide:
- Proof of their identity (passport or ID).
- Proof of the child’s identity (birth certificate or passport).
- Evidence of why the PPS number is needed.
- Proof of the parent-child relationship.
- Proof of address.
Applications must be submitted to a PPS Number Allocation Centre, and the DSP will send the child’s PPS number by post once it is processed.
Simplifying the Process with Peak Accounting Solutions
Applying for a PPS number can be time-consuming and confusing, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the system. That’s where Peak Accounting Solutions can help.
We offer complete support for obtaining a PPS number, ensuring you don’t need to navigate the process alone. Our services include:
- Expert Guidance: Clear and personalised advise on what documents you need and how to apply.
- Help for Non-Residents: Assistance in understanding and meeting the specific requirements for non-residents.
- Complete Management: We handle the application from start to finish, ensuring everything is submitted correctly and on time.
By following these structured steps or seeking assistance from experts like Peak Accounting Solutions, obtaining a PPS number can be straightforward and stress-free, no matter your circumstances.
Where Can I Find My PPS Number?
Your PPS number is printed on several official documents, making it easy to locate. These include your Public Services Card, Drugs Payment Scheme Card, and Medical Card.
You can also find it on your GP visit card, European Health Insurance Card, or tax-related documents such as Tax Assessments and PAYE Notices of Tax Credits. In some cases, it might be on a Temporary Payment Card issued by the Department of Social Protection.
Rules for Getting a PPS Number
To obtain a PPS number in Ireland, you must provide proof of identity, the reason you need the number, and your address. The exact documents required depend on your personal circumstances.
Proof of Identity
- Irish citizens born in the Republic of Ireland: You need your birth certificate and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence.
- Irish citizens via naturalisation or Foreign Birth Registration: Present your passport or Certificate of Naturalisation. Alternatively, you can provide your Foreign Birth Registration certificate along with an Irish or UK driving licence or learner driving permit.
- Irish citizens born in Northern Ireland or UK citizens: Submit a current passport or your birth certificate showing your mother’s birth name, along with a current driving licence.
- EU citizens: A current passport or national identity card is required.
- Non-EU citizens: You need to show your current passport.
Proof of Address
Your address must be verified with a document no older than three months, such as a household utility bill, a financial statement, an official letter or document, tenancy agreement, or property lease.
Confirmation of address from a third party, such as a hotel or hostel manager, a school principal or administrator, or a property or accommodation owner.
If staying with friends or relatives, you can use their original household bill along with a note confirming your residency.
Changing Your Address
If you have a verified MyGovID, you can update your address on MyWelfare.ie. Without verified MyGovID or if you change your address, you must write to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) with your name, PPS number, old and new addresses, and proof of the new address, such as a utility bill.
The DSP will update your record once they receive your details. You can email or post completed forms to Client Identity Services for processing.
Conclusion
Obtaining a PPS number in Ireland is a crucial step for accessing public services, employment, and social welfare. By ensuring you have the correct documents for proof of identity, address, and purpose, the process becomes straightforward. Whether you’re applying for yourself, your child, or as a non-resident, following the steps outlined will help you navigate the requirements with ease.
For a hassle-free experience, trust Peak Accounting Solutions to handle your PPS application. Our expert team will guide you through every step, ensuring timely and accurate results. Contact us today to simplify your PPS application process!
FAQ’s
What is a Personal Public Service (PPS) number?
A Personal Public Service (PPS) number is a unique reference used in Ireland to access social welfare, public services, and information. It consists of 7 numbers followed by one or two letters. You automatically have one if you were born in Ireland after 1971, started work after 1979, or receive social welfare benefits. Morever, if you’re taking part in the drug payment scheme.
Where can I find my PPS number?
You can find your PPS number on documents like your public services card, drug payment scheme card, medical card, GP visit card, European health insurance card, tax assessments, PAYE notices, and temporary payment card.
What are the rules for getting a PPS number?
To get a PPS number, you need to provide proof of your identity, the reason you need the number, and your address, ensuring all documents are valid and up-to-date.
How do I get a PPS number for a person who has died?
A PPS number may be required for a deceased person, often for probate purposes. Send a copy of the death certificate and the reason to DSP’s Client Identity Services.
Do children need a PPS number, and how can they get one?
Children in Ireland are automatically assigned a PPS number if their birth is registered with the General Register Office (GRO) within three months. If the child’s birth is not registered in time, the child was born in Ireland but both parents live abroad, or the child lives in Ireland but wasn’t born here, parents must apply for the PPS number.
How can I update my address linked to my PPS number?
If you have a verified MyGovID, you can update your address online using MyWelfare.ie. Without a verified MyGovID, send your name, PPS number, old and new address, and proof of your new address (e.g., utility bill) to the Department of Social Protection via email or post.
