Having worked for 12 yrs without a break and then having a baby, when maternity benefit runs out are you entitled to a higher rate of lone parents and can you claim tax back.
One Parent Family Payment is a means-tested payment, so the amount paid is based on income & savings, not PRSI contributions paid.
If you are unemployed and available for work, you may be able to sign for half-rate Jobseeker's Benefit in addition to One Parent Family Payment, which would be based on your PRSI contributions.