Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 February 2024
74. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Social Protection to consider increasing the weekly earnings disregard for disability allowance recipients as when using the benefit of work estimator (details supplied) recipients seem to have less take home now post budget than before; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7804/24]
View answerThe earnings disregard for recipients of Disability Allowance has increased by almost 38% over the last four budgets from €120 to €165 currently. This enables those on the scheme to earn more without having a negative impact on their means tested payment. For people in employment, an income disregard of €165 per week is applied. In addition, 50% of earnings between €165 and €375 is also disregarded for the purpose of the means test. A person can now earn a maximum of €505.10 per week and still keep a portion of their Disability Allowance payment.
Based on the figures provided by the Deputy, for a person working 35 hours per week in 2023 at the minimum wage level of €12 per hour, they would have expected to receive €472.81 per week. This was made up of a net salary of €380.31 plus a Disability Allowance payment of €92.50. If the customer works the same number of hours in 2024 at the new minimum wage rate of €12.70 per hour, they could expect to receive €479.78 per week. This is made up of a net salary of €397.78 and a Disability Allowance payment of €82. Overall, this is an increase of €6.97 per week.
Regarding the Benefit of Work Estimator, please note that the figures displayed are an estimate and the actual payment may differ. This will depend on a persons personal circumstances and the information which they have provided.
In order to get an accurate entitlement figure I suggest the person contacts Disability Allowance directly at: Department of Social Protection, Social Welfare Services Office, Government Buildings, Ballinalee Road, Co. Longford. Or by phone at 043 3340000 or 0818 927770.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
