The person concerned applied for Disability Allowance on 11 November 2008. On 18 June 2009 he was awarded disability allowance from 12 November 2008 and he is currently in receipt of the maximum weekly payment of €196.00, plus an increase for three qualified children of €89.40 and a fuel allowance of €20.00.
The person applied to have his claim backdated to July 2008 as he had ceased employment on 30 June 2008. This application was refused by a Deciding Officer on 6 August 2009 and the person was notified of this decision and of his right of appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office
There is a requirement under social welfare legislation that claims for disability allowance must be made within seven days from the date of entitlement to the allowance. However, provision is made in the legislation to make payments, within certain limits, where there is "good cause" for the late claim.
The person subsequently appealed this decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. The file was sent to the Social Welfare Inspector to clarify some aspects of the claim and I understand the Inspector will have the investigation completed shortly. A Deciding Officer will again examine the case in light of the Inspector's report and if it is decided to backdate the claim the person will be notified directly. If the Deciding Officer decides not to backdate the claim the file will be sent to the Appeals Office and the person will be contacted directly by that Office.