Self-employed people can now benefit from free dental and optical exams for the first time

Self-employed people can now benefit from free dental and optical exams through the Treatment Benefit Scheme for the first time ever.

The extension of these PRSI benefits will cover up to 450,000 self-employed people and their spouses across the State.

The invalidity pension will also be made available to self-employed contributors who cannot work due to long term illness or disability.

Speaking about the extension of the PRSI benefits, local TD and Tanaiste, Frances Fitzgerald said small business owners, farmers, tradesmen, freelancers, contractors and professionals can now benefit from the scheme for the first time.

She said: “People who work for themselves and pay PRSI at class S can now get the same regular dental and optical examinations, free of charge, that until now were only available to employees.

“They can also get a grant for hearing aids of 50% of the cost, to a maximum of €500 per aid, every four years.

“This move is just one element of Fine Gael’s overall plan to support self-employed people.

Meanwhile, speaking about the eligibility changes to the invalidity pension, Minister Fitzgerald said: “The invalidity pension will also be made available to self-employed contributors who cannot work due to long term illness or disability.

“This will be a really welcome move for local self-employed people who, for the first time ever will have that security if they are unable to work.”

For more information check out the all the details HERE