Personal Public Service Number -Use of the PPS Number

Use of the PPS Number

The Personal Public Service Number (PPS Number) is designed for use in transactions between the individual and public bodies.  The PPS Number may only be used by persons authorised to do so under Social Welfare legislation (link to PPS Number Legislation Section).
Data may only be shared using the PPS Number as a common identifier where the sharing is authorised by law e.g. Data Protection or Social Welfare law.

Data protection principles must be upheld with regard to the PPS Number and all reasonable security steps should be taken with regard to the storage and handing of the PPS Number and associated data.

The PPS Number is intended to be used for the purpose of accurately identifying the individual in the administration of public services. It should only be given to and used by public bodies and should not be randomly disclosed.

As a unique identifier for individuals the PPS Number is a valuable piece of personal information that should be respected and safeguarded against misappropriation or misuse.

A PPS Number is not proof of identity. Neither a PPS Number nor a Social Services Card should be accepted as such. Additional evidence of identity should always be sought, as appropriate.

Register of Users of the PPS Number 

Client Identity Services (CIS), is the section within the Department of Social and Family Affairs responsible for managing the issue and use of the PPS Number. CIS is committed to protecting and facilitating the use of the PPS Number in accordance with the law. This Register of Users of the PPS Number has been prepared and published to promote transparency regarding the ongoing use and future development of the PPS Number as a unique identifier for public services.

The legislation governing the allocation and use of the PPS Number is contained in the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act , as amended by the Social Welfare Acts 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002 and 2003 2005 and the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007. Only Specified Bodies named in the above Social Welfare Acts can use the PPS Number.

The Department is writing to each of the Specified Bodies asking four questions:
i. If they use the PPS Number at present?
ii. For what purpose(s)?
iii. If they exchange the PPS Number with any external body? If so the name of the relevant bodies and the purpose(s) of the exchange.
iv. Their future plans for the use of the PPS Number?

The responses received from the Specified Bodies to date are as listed in the Register of Users. Readers should note that this Register is in the course of being compiled and is not therefore complete. Further replies are being added on a regular basis.
Any queries may be addressed to:

Annemarie Freeman,
Client Identity Services,
Department of Social Protection,
Shannon Lodge,
Dublin Road,
Carrick-on-Shannon,
Co. Leitrim.
Ph: (071) 9672682
Email: Annemarie.Freeman@welfare.ie