Treatment Benefit Scheme
PRSI-funded dental, optical and hearing benefits — a free dental exam once a calendar year, a free eyesight test once every 2 years, and contributions towards cleaning, glasses and hearing aids.
- Type
- Based on PRSI
- Paid
- Not a cash payment
- Taxable
- No
- Administered by
- Department of Social Protection
How much is Treatment Benefit Scheme?
Free exams plus contributions to costs
Not a cash payment. The Department pays the full cost of a dental oral examination once a calendar year, and a free eyesight test once every 2 years. From 31 January 2026 there is also €50 towards a scale and polish (or €42 for periodontal treatment where clinically necessary) once a calendar year, with your share of a scale and polish capped at €15. Optical and hearing contributions are set amounts paid to the provider.
Who can get Treatment Benefit Scheme
- You must have enough PRSI contributions. The number required is age-banded — under 21, 21–28, 29–65, and 66 and over each have different conditions.
- Your dependent spouse, civil partner or cohabitant may also qualify on your record.
- Sight tests for VDU use and driving licences are not covered.
Is Treatment Benefit Scheme means tested?
Not means-tested. Entitlement depends entirely on your PRSI record.
Things people get caught by
- Most people never claim this. If you pay PRSI, you are very likely entitled to a free dental exam every calendar year and an eye test every second year.
- You do not usually apply yourself — your dentist or optician checks your eligibility before treating you.
What else you might get
Payments interact. These are the ones that commonly go with Treatment Benefit Scheme.
- Medical Card
Covers a wider range of dental and optical services if you qualify.