maternity entitlements for sole trader

[jigri dost]

I am a self employed sole trader. I collect vat etc and my accountant does my income tax return for me each year. Will I be entitled to maternity benefit of any sort or just tax relief when i have a baby? I am not married. thanks.

 

[DB74]

Self-employed people are entitled to maternity benefit.

According to citizens information website you must have 52 weeks PRSI contributions in any of the 3 tax years preceding the year when you start maternity leave.

eg - if you will be having your baby in 2009 then you must have 52 weeks PRSI contributions in either 2006, 2007, or 2008

There is a section on the maternity benefit form for self-employed people

http://www.citizensinformation.ie/c...ts-to-families-and-children/maternity_benefit

 

[jigri dost]

yes thanks but how do i know if i am paying these contributiuons, short of asking my accountant!

 

[JQ2002]

Contact the Social Welfare office in Sligo, have your pps number to hand. They will be able to tell you if you have sufficent contributions.

 

[Graham_07]

yes thanks but how do i know if i am paying these contributiuons, short of asking my accountant!

Why can you net ask your accountant ? They will have copies of your tax assessments showing the PRSI payments.