Robert Troy
Question:343. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection the means test criteria for a disability allowance with respect to a self-employed farmer. [49703/21]
View answerTuesday, 12 October 2021
Questions (343)
Written answers
Disability allowance (DA) is a means tested scheme and the way means are assessed is laid down in social welfare legislation. In summary, any income, with some exceptions, belonging to the person is assessable as means for DA purposes.
Where a person is in receipt of DA and is also a self employed farmer, then the Department assesses the prospective income from the farm in the next 12 months. In most cases the figures for the last 12 months can be used for this purpose. If there has been a major change in stock levels or in method of farming, estimation will need to be made on the best available evidence. The yearly value (or net profit) is calculated by deducting all necessary expenses from the gross income.
The first €140 of weekly income from that employment is disregarded for the purpose of the means test. 50% of their weekly earnings between €140 and €350 is then disregarded for the purpose of the means test. Any further earnings, over €350 per week, are fully assessed for the purpose of the means test.
There is no discretion allowed as deciding officers are obliged to follow the legislation when assessing means.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.