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Social Welfare Benefits

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 December 2020

Thursday, 17 December 2020

Questions (440)

Bernard Durkan

Question:

440. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress to date in the determination of an application for fuel allowance in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44617/20]

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Written answers

Fuel allowance is a means-tested payment to assist householders on long-term social welfare payments towards the cost of their heating needs.

The main eligibility conditions that apply to the fuel allowance scheme are that a person must be in receipt of a qualifying payment, must satisfy a means test and must either be living alone or with other qualifying persons. The fuel allowance means test is linked to the maximum rate of the state pension (contributory). The applicant and their spouse can have a combined weekly household income of €100.00 above the maximum rates for State pension (contributory) and Increase for qualified adult and still be eligible for a fuel allowance.

The person concerned applied for this allowance on 16 October 2020. Since it is a means-tested payment, information regarding their household means was requested on 29 October 2020. This has not been provided to date. When this information is received, the person’s eligibility for fuel allowance can be determined and they will be notified of a decision as soon as possible.

I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.

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