Health Insurance Bik Calculator Ireland

Use this BIK calculator to estimate your eligibility for the Back-to-Work Income Guarantee (BIK) or Basic Income Guarantee (BIG) in Ireland. The BIK scheme provides financial support to help individuals return to work after a period of unemployment or illness.

What is BIK in Ireland?

The Back-to-Work Income Guarantee (BIK) is a government initiative designed to support individuals who are unemployed or have been off work due to illness. The scheme provides a guaranteed income for a limited period to help people return to work or find employment.

The Basic Income Guarantee (BIG) is a similar scheme that provides financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to long-term illness or disability. Both schemes aim to reduce the financial hardship experienced by those who are unable to work.

Note: BIK and BIG are separate schemes with different eligibility criteria. Make sure to check which scheme you qualify for based on your circumstances.

BIK Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for BIK, you must meet the following criteria:

Be a resident of Ireland
Be aged between 18 and 65 years
Have been unemployed for at least 12 weeks
Be actively seeking employment
Have a valid Public Service Number (PSN)

Additional Requirements for BIG

If you qualify for BIG, you must also meet the following criteria:

Have a long-term illness or disability that prevents you from working
Have been unable to work for at least 12 months
Have made a reasonable attempt to find work during this period

Eligibility Formula:

Eligible = (Resident AND Age ≥ 18 AND Age ≤ 65 AND Unemployed ≥ 12 weeks AND Seeking Employment AND Valid PSN) OR (Long-term Illness AND Unable to Work ≥ 12 months AND Reasonable Attempt to Find Work)

How to Apply for BIK

To apply for BIK, follow these steps:

Visit the official BIK application page
Complete the online application form
Provide the required documentation, such as your PSN and proof of unemployment
Submit your application and await approval

BIK Payment Details

If approved, you will receive a guaranteed income for a limited period. The exact amount and duration of the payment depend on your individual circumstances and the scheme's guidelines.

Scheme	Maximum Duration	Payment Amount
BIK	Up to 12 months	€300 per week
BIG	Up to 5 years	Varies by individual needs

FAQ

What is the difference between BIK and BIG?

BIK is for individuals who are unemployed and actively seeking work, while BIG is for those who are unable to work due to long-term illness or disability.

How long does it take to get approved for BIK?

Approval times vary, but typically it takes between 4 to 8 weeks to receive a decision after submitting your application.

Can I work while receiving BIK payments?

Yes, you can work while receiving BIK payments, but your income may affect the amount of support you receive.

Is BIK available to self-employed individuals?

BIK is primarily designed for individuals who are unemployed and actively seeking employment. Self-employed individuals may need to consider other support schemes.