Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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360. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the number and percentage of persons that apply late for their State pension; her views on whether a raised awareness is needed in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44362/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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In 2021, a total of 1,573 (4%) applicants resident in the state submitted an application more than six months after their 66th birthday.

Current social welfare legislation on late claims stipulates those claims received on or after 6 April 2012 may only be backdated for a maximum of six months.

Backdating of a late claim beyond six months will only 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.In either case, relevant documentary evidence should be provided by the person concerned.

Although the onus is on individuals to keep themselves informed of eligibility conditions for State Pensions my department were contacting persons where we could establish a likely entitlement to state pension (contributory) in advance of pension age. This process is being reviewed. It is intended to re-instate an enhanced process before year end.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.