Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 November 2015
44. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection how private pension contributions or additional voluntary contributions are assessed in determining qualification for a carer's allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39700/15]
View answerCarer's Allowance (CA) is a social assistance payment, made to persons who are providing full-time care and attention to people with disabilities who require full-time care and attention and whose income falls below certain limits.
The means test that applies to applicants for CA, assesses any income belonging to the carer and their spouse, civil partner, or cohabitant, including any property, (except their own home) or any asset that could bring in money or provide them with an income - for example occupational pensions, or pensions and benefits from another country.
In calculating means from employment for the carer and their spouse, civil partner or cohabitant, deductions are allowed for the following contributions: employee PRSI, superannuation, additional voluntary contributions, contributions to personal retirement savings accounts, union dues and reasonable travel costs.
