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.