What it is
Back to Work Enterprise Allowance, or BTWEA, is a Department of Social Protection scheme for eligible people moving from certain social welfare payments into self-employment.
It is different from starting self-employment without a welfare support, and it is not the same as a business grant.
Key terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| BTWEA | Back to Work Enterprise Allowance. |
| Qualifying payment | A social welfare payment that can count for BTWEA eligibility under official rules. |
| Enterprise Officer or case officer | A person involved in assessment or approval, depending on the route. |
| Self-employment | Running a business or trade for oneself. |
General rules
Department guidelines say eligibility depends on the payment type, duration on the qualifying payment, business proposal and approval. The official rules describe the approval process and qualifying payment conditions.
BTWEA may interact with tax, PRSI and self-employment registration. This page does not give tax advice.
Payment rate
| Period | Proportion of qualifying payment retained |
|---|---|
| Year 1 | 100% |
| Year 2 | 75% |
Different from a business grant
BTWEA allows a qualifying payment to continue at a reducing proportion for a set period. It is not a grant for business costs. Separate enterprise supports may have different rules.
Common misunderstandings
Where to check officially
Eligibility and rates can depend on the payment, household circumstances and Department of Social Protection assessment. The official sources below are the places to check current rules.
- gov.ie - Operational Guidelines: Back to Work Enterprise Allowance
- gov.ie - Back to Work Enterprise Allowance
- Citizens Information - Back to Work Enterprise Allowance