How much money does a person get if he or she is on the dole?

The amount of benefits available on the dole (under the Jobseeker's Benefit or Jobseeker's Allowance in the U.K.) depends on a number of factors, including any existing income and/or savings, and whether the applicant is an individual or a couple. There are different rates depending on whether the applicant is between the ages of 18 and 24, or over 25.

The Jobseeker's Benefit is available only to people who have paid a specified amount of Class I National Insurance Premiums (or NICs) in the previous 26-week period. In Ireland, the contributions are known as PRSI contributions. People who have not paid in the requisite amount must apply for the Jobseeker's Allowance instead.