Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Fuel allowance is a means-tested payment to assist householders on long-term social welfare payments towards the cost of their heating needs. It is not intended to meet those costs in full. Only one allowance is paid per household.

The main eligibility conditions that apply to the fuel allowance scheme are that a person must be in receipt of a qualifying payment, must satisfy a means test and must either be living alone or with other qualifying persons. The fuel allowance means test is linked to the maximum rate of State pension (contributory). The applicant and spouse/civil partner/cohabitant can have a combined weekly household income of €100.00 above the maximum rates for State pension (contributory) and Increase for qualified adult and still be eligible for fuel allowance.

The person applied for fuel allowance with their State pension (contributory) application on 17 June 2019. Their fuel allowance application was disallowed as their household means were in excess of the above means limit, based on declaration of a second property and self-employment income. They were advised in writing of this decision on 22 August 2019.

It may be the case that the person’s financial circumstances have since changed. I have arranged for a fuel application form to issue to the person concerned. On receipt of the completed application, eligibility for fuel allowance will be examined and the person will be notified in writing of the decision.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.