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State Pension (Non-Contributory)

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 December 2020

Tuesday, 8 December 2020

Questions (393)

Aindrias Moynihan

Question:

393. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a series of questions raised in correspondence of 24 November 2020 to a person (detail supplied) were not previously raised in earlier correspondence on 30 September 2020; if the person should have had reasonable expectation in having a decision after responding to the questions raised on 30 September 2020; and her views on whether the person is being fairly treated in their request for backdating their pension to the date of original application. [41701/20]

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Written answers

State pension non-contributory is a means-tested payment for people aged 66 and over, habitually residing in the State, who do not qualify for a state pension contributory, or who only qualify for a reduced rate contributory pension based on their social insurance record.

For the purposes of the means-test, at the outset and at any review intervals during the lifetime of the claim, a claimant must provide, on request, full and up to date details of any income(s), assets, savings and investments they may hold.

The state pension non-contributory entitlement of the person concerned is currently being reviewed by a Deciding Officer.  On 30 September 2020, a request for information issued to the person concerned in order that their weekly means could be correctly assessed for the relevant period. The Deciding Officer sought additional information on 24 November 2020, required to complete their determination.

On receipt, the information received will be examined by the Deciding Officer who will respond to the person concerned without delay. 

As state pension non-contributory is a means-tested payment, in all cases where backdating of pension commencement is requested, it is necessary and standard procedure for the Deciding Officer to establish the weekly means of the claimant and their possible pension entitlement over and during the period sought.  

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.

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