How to get a PPS number

If you have a job offer or are thinking of moving to Ireland to work you’ll soon become aware of the importance of having a PPS number.

The tax system in Ireland works by taxing your entire income at particular rates. You need to apply for credits that will reduce the amount of tax deducted.

To do this, when you start your first job in Ireland you’ll need to complete and sign a Form 12A (available from revenue.ie). But, in order to have the form accepted by Revenue you’ll need to have a PPS number.

A PPS Number is your Personal Public Service Number. It’s your unique identifying number for use with government bodies.

Getting a PPS Number

Generally, to get a PPS number you need to be living in Ireland.

And you also need to be able to show that you need one in order to have dealings with a public body, such as Revenue. Therefore it’s not necessary (or possible) to get a PPS Number for an interview with an Irish employer. But it will be necessary to have one to apply for tax credits because now you’re dealing with Revenue.

The government body that deals with issuing PPS Numbers is the Department of Social Protection. A list of PPS Number Allocation Centres can be found on their website.

You’ll need to fill out an application and produce documentary evidence of identity and address. The documents you need to provide will vary depending on your nationality.

What types of documentary evidence are required?

If you’re from the UK, you need:

1. a passport or Birth Certificate;
2. another form of photographic ID, such as a driving licence;
3. evidence of your address, such as a household bill in your name; and
4. evidence as to why a PPS number is required.

If you’re an EU national or EEA citizen, you need:

1. a current valid passport or National Identity Card;
2. evidence of your address, such as a household bill in your name; and
3. evidence as to why a PPS number is required.

If you’re a non-EEA National, you need:

1. a current valid passport or current valid 1951 Travel Document;
2. evidence of your address, such as a household bill in your name; and
3. evidence as to why a PPS number is required.

If registration is successful then the Department of Social Protection will send a letter of notification with the new number within 3 to 5 working days.