Treatment Benefit Scheme

A. The Treatment Benefit Scheme is a scheme run by the Department of Social Protection (DSP) that provides dental, optical and aural services to qualified people.

From 27 March 2017, the Treatment Benefit Scheme has been extended to also cover self-employed people who pay Class S PRSI.

Under this scheme:

• the Department pays the full cost of an oral examination once a calendar year.
• you are entitled to a free eyesight test. However, sight tests for VDUs, driving licences, etc., are not covered under the scheme.
• hearing aids may be provided by suppliers who have a contract with the Department of Social Protection. The Department pays half the cost of a hearing aid subject to a fixed maximum of €500 for each hearing aid every 4 years. It also pays half the cost of repairs to aids.

You must have sufficient qualifying PRSI contributions in order to qualify under this scheme. You should contact the DSP or your treatment provider to check your eligibility before proceeding with any treatment.

Date published 12 Apr 2017

This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.