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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our service.
♿ Easy-to-Read Version
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
👤 Who can use this service?
People who:
- have a disability
- have a health condition
- have a mental health difficulty
💼 Do I need to be ready for work?
No
You do not need to be “job ready”
If you want to work, we can support you
🤝 What support will I get?
We can help you to:
- find a job
- write a CV
- apply for jobs
- prepare for interviews
- start work
- stay in work
💰 Will work affect my payments?
Maybe
We will:
- explain how work affects your payments
- help you make safe decisions
🏢 Can employers get support?
Yes
We support employers to:
- find staff
- support employees in work
💰 Who decides about grants?
The Department of Social Protection (DSP) decides
We do not decide
We can:
- give advice
- help you apply
📞 Need more help?
We are here to help
👉 Contact us
Am I eligible for your service?
Yes. You can use our service if you are aged 18 to 65 and have a disability, illness, injury, or mental health difficulty and want to work.
You do not need to be on a social welfare payment to use this service.
Do I need a referral from DSP/Intreo?
No, you can come to us directly or be referred through Intreo/DSP.
What if I have been unemployed for years?
We can still help. Many people we support have been out of work for a long time.
Will working affect my benefits?
We provide benefits advice as part of our service so you can make informed choices.
What is IPS?
IPS stands for Individual Placement and Support. It helps people with mental health difficulties into competitive employment quickly, with ongoing support.
Can I get training while looking for work?
Yes. We guide you to training options. If your Intreo advisor identifies a need before referral, the Training Support Grant (TSG) may provide up to €1,000.
Who pays for training?
We can support you with training as part of our service. We do not pay for formal training courses directly. In some cases, you may be able to get funding through Intreo (for example, a Training Support Grant).
What supports are available to employers?
Employers may qualify for wage subsidies, adaptation grants, equipment grants, interpreter support, and inclusion training grants.
How does the Wage Subsidy Scheme work?
The Wage Subsidy Scheme (WSS) has three strands. See our Grants page for full details.
Do I need to make workplace changes?
Sometimes. Employers can apply for grants to cover adaptations or equipment.
Who pays for adaptations or equipment?
Employers may receive up to €25,000 for adaptations and €12,000 for equipment through DSP grants.
Do I need to pay for disability equality and inclusion training?
No. The Disability Equality & Inclusion Training Grant (Work and Access scheme) covers 80% of non-certified training or 90% of accredited training, up to €20,000 per year. Employability does not deliver this training but can advise employers on applying.
What if my new employee needs extra support?
We provide in-work support such as a coach job to help them settle in.
How long do grant applications take?
Most are processed in weeks, though larger grants may take longer.
Is grant funding guaranteed?
No. Grants are subject to eligibility and DSP approval.
Is your service free?
Yes. Our service is fully funded and free to job seekers and employers.
How do you protect my data?
We comply with GDPR. Your data is stored securely and shared only when legally required.
How do I make a complaint?
You can complain by phone, email, online, or in person. We reply within 5 working days and resolve within 20 days. If you are not satisfied with the outcome of our complaints process, you may request a review by the Department of Social Protection. If you are still unhappy, you can contact the Ombudsman.
Can I apply for more than one grant?
Yes, if eligible. For example, an employer can apply for both equipment and adaptation grants.
Who decides if my grant is approved?
The Department of Social Protection (DSP) makes the final decision.