John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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178. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if an application for a State pension by a person (details supplied) will be expedited. [25127/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned reached pension age on 9 January 2021. An application for State pension (contributory) has not been received to date.

On receipt of an application the person's State pension (contributory) entitlement will be examined by a Deciding Officer and they will be notified of the outcome. Determination of pension eligibility depends on the individual nature of an applicant’s circumstances.

Current social welfare legislation on late claims stipulates that claims may only be backdated for a maximum of 6 months. If eligibility is determined, this aspect will then be considered by the Deciding Officer.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.