The Back to Work Enterprise Allowance (BTWEA) scheme encourages people getting certain social welfare payments to become self-employed. People taking part in the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance scheme (pdf) can keep a percentage of their social welfare payment for up to 2 years. The allowance is not taxable.
To qualify for the Allowance your must be
1. Setting up a business that a Local Integrated Development Company or a Facilitator has approved in writing in advance
and
• getting one of the qualifying social welfare payments for at least 12 months