Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 31 January 2024
95. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress to date in the determination of eligibility for an increase in the rate for a qualified adult in respect of a State pension (contributory) in the case of a person (details supplied); if she will list the information still outstanding, if any; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4408/24]
View answerThe person concerned is in receipt of the State Pension (contributory). He is also in receipt of an increase for a qualified adult (IQA) at the maximum rate in respect of his spouse. The IQA is a means-tested payment, payable to a claimant whose spouse, civil partner or cohabitant is being wholly or mainly maintained by them, and where that qualified adult’s personal means from any source does not exceed a means test income limit.
Where a qualified adult has weekly means of less than €100, the maximum rate of IQA is payable. Where their weekly means are over €100 and not more than €310, a tapering reduced rate of IQA is payable. If the qualified adult has means of more than €310 per week, this exceeds the means limit and there is no entitlement to an IQA payment. A review of the IQA was carried out following receipt of the requested information. A natural justice letter has issued to the person concerned proposing a reduction in the IQA from 15 February 2024.
They have also been afforded the opportunity to furnish, within 21 days, any statement or evidence that they wish to make available to the Deciding Officer before a decision on their entitlement is finalised.I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
