Appealing a decision
- Act within 60 days of the decision.
- Appeal online on MyWelfare.ie with a verified MyGovID (you need a Public Services Card, a verified mobile and an email). This is the easiest and quickest route.
- Ask for an oral hearing if you want to explain your case in person. Some cases are decided without one.
- Add documents later through MyWelfare if new evidence turns up. You can also check progress or withdraw the appeal there.
An appeals officer decides the case and that decision is final. If your circumstances change or new information comes up, you can also simply apply for the payment again.
Decisions that cannot be appealed
For payments with no formal appeal, you can ask the section of the Department that made the decision to review it directly.
Making a complaint
Use one of these channels:
- The Department's online Customer Feedback form
- Email [email protected]
- Ask a staff member at your Intreo office to record it for you
| Stage | Target |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgement | Within 3 days |
| Full reply | Within 15 days |
| Review by an independent officer (if you ask by email) | Written reply within 20 working days |
| Still unhappy | Office of the Ombudsman |
These are the Department's targets for complaints, not deadlines for deciding payments.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to appeal a social welfare decision?
60 days from the decision. You can ask for an oral hearing.
What is the fastest way to appeal?
Online on MyWelfare.ie with a verified MyGovID account. You can also upload extra documents and check or withdraw the appeal there.
Is a complaint the same as an appeal?
No. A complaint is about the service you received. An appeal challenges the decision on your claim. A complaint does not affect your right to appeal.
How quickly does the Department answer complaints?
It aims to acknowledge within 3 days and reply within 15. If you are not satisfied, an independent officer reviews it and replies in writing within 20 working days.
My appeal was successful. Who pays me?
Payment questions go to the section dealing with your claim or your Intreo office. The appeals office does not handle payments.
Related guides
Jobseeker's payments
Check you applied for the right scheme.
Intreo phone numbers
Who to call for what.
Sources: MyWelfare: Appeals FAQs · gov.ie: Customer feedback (DSP) · gov.ie: Jobseeker's Allowance (appeals). Intreo Offices is independent and not affiliated with the Department of Social Protection. Rates and rules change: confirm on gov.ie or MyWelfare.ie before you act.