Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 September 2022
359. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection if the case of a person (details supplied) will be reviewed; if advice will be provided in this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44360/22]
View answerThe person concerned reached pension age on 12 January 2018. They applied for State pension (contributory) on 02 August 2019.
State pension (contributory) was awarded from 31 January 2019, allowing for the maximum backdating of six months from the date of receipt of the original application.
Current social welfare legislation on late claims stipulates that claims received on or after 5/6 April 2012 may only be backdated for a maximum of six months.
Backdating of a late claim beyond six months will be considered in circumstances where the failure to claim arose as the result of either incorrect information having been supplied by my Department, or the claimant’s serious incapacity by illness or infirmity. In either case, relevant documentary evidence should be provided by the person concerned.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
