Apply if you have been medically certified to self-isolate or are ill due to  COVID-19

Who can get this payment?

Enhanced Illness Benefit is available to employees or self-employed people are unable to work due to:

  • diagnosis of COVID-19; or
  • An instruction by a doctor to self-isolate or restrict their movements

Click here to learn more about Enhanced Illness Benefit for COVID-19 

Who does not qualify for this payment?

Close contacts who are asymptomatic from 28th of February are not entitled to receive Enhanced Illness Benefit. 

Duration and rates of payment

Enhanced Illness Benefit is payable on a daily basis, excluding Sunday. Payment is for a maximum of 7 days. Where a person has a COVID diagnosis they may be paid for up to 10 weeks with appropriate medical certification from their GP. The personal weekly payment rate is €350. 

What evidence do I need to provide

Medical Certification must be provided by your GP in order for your application to be processed

If you have received a Paper Certificate you can send this to the Department of Social Protection, Illness Benefit, PO BOX 1650, Dublin 1

If your GP has submitted an eCert directly to the Department there is no need to forward any further medical evidence.

What do I need to complete this application?

Your personal details

If you dont have a verified MyGovID account you will be asked to provide some personal details such as your PPS number. 

Your employment

You will need to provide details of your current employment.

Your relationship

If relevant, you may be asked if you want to apply for a potential increase in payment for your partner

Your children

If relevant, you may be asked to provide details of any children that you have, such as PPS number.

Ready?
Apply now

Apply if you have been medically certified to self-isolate or are ill due to  COVID-19