How to get your PPS number in Ireland

What it is

Your Personal Public Service Number (PPSN or PPS number) is a unique reference number for dealing with public services in Ireland. You need it to:

work and be taxed correctly (without one you pay emergency tax),
get social welfare payments and the free travel or medical card schemes,
register with many public services.

Do you need this guide?

You need a PPS number if you live in Ireland and need it for one of the reasons above, for example you've started (or are about to start) a job. You usually have to be living in Ireland to apply.

Before you start

You'll need:

Photo ID:
- EU/EEA citizens: your passport or national identity card.
- Non-EU/EEA citizens: your passport. If you have an IRP card, bring it too.
Proof of address in Ireland, dated within the last 3 months: for example a utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement, or a letter from an employer or a government office. A letter from the person you live with, confirming your address, can also be accepted.
The reason you need a PPS number: for example a job offer or contract.
A MyGovID account, to apply online.

Steps

Create a MyGovID account (basic or verified) if you don't have one.
Apply online on MyWelfare (Apply for a PPS number). Fill in your details and the reason you need the number.
Book your appointment during the online application. Everyone has to attend an in-person appointment at a PPS centre, usually at an Intreo office.
Go to your appointment with your photo ID, proof of address and proof of why you need the number. Your MyWelfare notification lists exactly what to bring.
Get your number. It's posted to you, usually within a week or so of your appointment. Your Public Services Card may follow.

Cost

Free.

Common pitfalls

Proof of address too old. It must be dated within the last 3 months and show your name.
No reason document. Bring something that shows why you need the number, such as a job offer letter.
Starting work without it. Give your PPS number to your employer and register your job with Revenue as soon as possible to avoid emergency tax.
Applying from abroad. In most cases you must be living in Ireland to get a PPS number.

When to ask a helper

If you can't get a proof of address in your name (for example you're in temporary accommodation), or the appointment wait is long, ask someone who's been through it.