PPS NUMBER

A Personal Public Service (PPS) number is required for all dealings with public services in Ireland, such as the Department of Social Protection and Revenue. Questions about PPS numbers are one of the most frequently raised issues with Same Home Ireland staff.

The information below is intended to provide basic information and to help answer your questions about obtaining a PPS number.

For further details or advice, please contact us at Safe Home Ireland and we will explain the process further and aim to assist you.

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Safe Home Ireland can give you tailored advice and information about moving or returning to Ireland. Our service is free and confidential.

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FAQs

WHAT IS A PPS NUMBER?

A Personal Public Service Number is the Irish equivalent of your National Insurance/Social Security Number.

A PPSN is required in order to apply for any benefits,entitlements, social housing supports and health care (Medical Card) In Ireland. It also the unique reference number relevant to employment and taxation in Ireland.

Some people may already have this number particularly if they are in receipt of a part Irish pension or if they worked in Ireland after 1979. These older PPS numbers were made up of 7 numbers and ending in one or sometimes two letters – example 4567893W or 4567483WA.

To enquire about an existing PPSN: Contact: Client Identity Services, Shannon Lodge, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim

Telephone: Lo Call 1890 927999 (Ireland only)
Tel: +353 71 967 2616.
After initial recorded message, select option for Client Identity Services.

Email: cis@welfare.ie

There is no automatic entitlement to a PPS number. Applicants must be able to show a valid reason why the number is required (E.G starting employment/applying for a benefit/applying for a Medial Card etc).

HOW DO I GO ABOUT APPLYING FOR A PPS NUMBER?

It is generally not possible to apply for a PPSN until you are resident in Ireland. However, Client Identity Services do have a system where it maybe possible for non-residents to apply in ‘exceptional circumstances‘. For more information on this, and the general PPS application process, please see HERE

To begin the PPS application process, you can book an appointment online ahead of your planned move, please see HERE

Alternatively, when you move to Ireland, contact the local social welfare office in the area you have returned to and they will advise you where the nearest PPS registration centre is located. You can also check this out HERE

or Tel: 00353 (71) 967 2616