Written answers
Wednesday, 8 May 2024
Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection
State Pensions
Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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319. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will investigate why a person (details supplied), who now qualifies for a higher rate non-contributory pension, did not qualify for a similarly high rate when she first applied, and if this can be rectified. [20610/24]
Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The spouse of the person concerned is in receipt of the state pension (contributory). He is also in receipt of an increase for a qualified adult (IQA) in respect of the person concerned.
The application for IQA was received on 1 December 2023 and awarded from this date. A request for a review, in relation to backdating of the IQA was received. Following a review, the IQA entitlement has been backdated by 6 months from the date of receipt of the original IQA application, to 1 June 2023.
The spouse of the person concerned was notified in writing of this decision and arrears due will issue on 10 May 2024.
Current social welfare legislation on late claims stipulates that claims received may only be backdated for a maximum of six months. Backdating of a late claim beyond six months will be considered in circumstances where the failure to claim arose as the result of either incorrect information having been supplied by my Department, or the claimant’s serious incapacity by illness or infirmity. If the person concerned wishes to be considered for further backdating, the relevant documentary evidence should be provided to my Department.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
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