For the purposes of most social welfare claims in Ireland (for example, Jobseeker's Allowance) and supplementary welfare allowance claims, unmarried couples who are living together are treated the same as married couples.
Your marital status will affect your entitlement to Widow's/Widower's Pension.
You can only claim Widow's/Widower's Pension if your husband/wife dies. You will not be entitled to this pension if you re-marry.
If you are in doubt about how your marital status will affect your claim, you should contact your local social welfare office. In the case of supplementary welfare allowance, you should contact the Community Welfare Officer in your local Health Centre or local social welfare office.