There are claims the Government confused people with different explanations on how the Pandemic Unemployment Payment would be taxed.
The Free Legal Advice Centre says it told Oireachtas members in November that those on the benefit were not aware the bills were on the way.
The Government announced in May the PUP would be taxed.
However, FLAC's Legal Officer Christopher Bowes says people have had to deal with 'confusing' contradictions.
"Legislation that was introduced in August of last year in relation to the payment categorised as an urgent needs payment, which is a form of social welfare payment which is specifically exempt from income tax.
"The Minister said yesterday that it was clear from the start that the payment would be taxed in the same manner as Job Seeker's Allowance, and again this was a very confusing comment in circumstances as Job Seeker's Allowance is also exempt from income tax."
