Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 April 2024
102. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when illness benefit or other suitable illness payment will issue in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18177/24]
View answerWhile my department has received medical certificates from the person concerned, we have not yet received an application for Illness Benefit. An application can be made online at MyWelfare.ie, or by submitting a physical IB1 application form which is available from their GP.
I note that the person concerned is in receipt of Widow's Contributory Pension. A person cannot receive payment of both Illness Benefit and Widow's Contributory Pension at the same time. The Widow's Contributory Pension is payable at a higher rate than Illness Benefit and, as such, the person concerned is currently better off continuing to receive this payment.
However, it remains open to them to make an application for Illness Benefit, as they may be eligible to receive PRSI credited contributions on this scheme while they are sick.
I trust this clarifies the position for the deputy.
