Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The person concerned is in receipt of State Pension (contributory) and an Increase for Qualified Adult allowance since 28 September 2006.

The State Pension (contributory) awarded was based on a yearly average of 47 contributions. It is paid at the weekly rate of €248.30 plus an additional €10.00 over 80 allowance and the maximum Increase for Qualified Adult allowance of €227.00 per week.

The person concerned received the Autumn Cost of Living Double Payment in October and the €400 Lump Sum Fuel Allowance Payment in November.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The increase for Living Alone ceased on 25/05/2022 as the person concerned is no longer residing alone. They were notified in writing of this decision and informed of their right to request a review of this decision or to appeal it to the independent social welfare appeals office (SWAO).

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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404. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the number of working family payment applications that are in queue to be processed by her Department; if efforts are being made to clear the backlog for families that have applied; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [58881/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Working Family Payment (WFP) is a weekly tax-free payment for employees with children which supports people in low paid employment. The WFP is designed to prevent in-work poverty for low paid workers with child dependents, and to offer a financial incentive to take up employment. Once awarded WFP is payable for 52 weeks. At the end of the 52-week period a customer must reapply (renew) to determine ongoing eligibility.

The number of applications for the Working Family Payment have increased significantly and all available resources have been directed to processing these applications.

There are currently 3885 new claims on hand with an average processing time of 4 weeks. WFP renewal claims continue to be processed prior to the expiry of the current claim where all the relevant information has been provided by the customer.

The easiest and fastest ways for customers to make an application for Working Family Payment is online via mywelfare.ie

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.