Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
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825. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if the living alone allowance can be backdated to July 2021 for a person (details supplied) on a discretionary basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12983/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The increase for Living Alone is an extra payment for people on social welfare payments who are living alone. The allowance is €22.00 per week.

The person concerned applied for this allowance on 31 January 2023. They were awarded the allowance from 1 August 2022, allowing for the maximum backdating period of 6 months from date of receipt of the application in accordance with legislation.

A Deciding Officer has reviewed the award date for the increase for Living Alone. Having considered the extenuating circumstances, the increase has been backdated to 23 July 2021. This decision has issued to the person concerned and any arrears due will issue without delay.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.