The earnings disregard for recipients of Disability Allowance has increased by almost 38% over the last four budgets from €120 to €165 currently. This enables those on the scheme to earn more without having a negative impact on their means tested payment. For people in employment, an income disregard of €165 per week is applied. In addition, 50% of earnings between €165 and €375 is also disregarded for the purpose of the means test. A person can now earn a maximum of €505.10 per week and still keep a portion of their Disability Allowance payment.
Based on the figures provided by the Deputy, for a person working 35 hours per week in 2023 at the minimum wage level of €12 per hour, they would have expected to receive €472.81 per week. This was made up of a net salary of €380.31 plus a Disability Allowance payment of €92.50. If the customer works the same number of hours in 2024 at the new minimum wage rate of €12.70 per hour, they could expect to receive €479.78 per week. This is made up of a net salary of €397.78 and a Disability Allowance payment of €82. Overall, this is an increase of €6.97 per week.
Regarding the Benefit of Work Estimator, please note that the figures displayed are an estimate and the actual payment may differ. This will depend on a persons personal circumstances and the information which they have provided.
In order to get an accurate entitlement figure I suggest the person contacts Disability Allowance directly at: Department of Social Protection, Social Welfare Services Office, Government Buildings, Ballinalee Road, Co. Longford. Or by phone at 043 3340000 or 0818 927770.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.