Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 June 2025
596. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Social Protection the income supports that are available for an employed person, also in receipt of disability allowance, but out of work due to illness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34382/25]
View answerDisability Allowance (DA) is a weekly allowance paid to people with a specified disability who are aged 16 or over and under the age of 66. This disability must be expected to last for at least one year and the allowance is subject to medical assessment, a means test, and habitual residency conditions.
DA is a means tested payment. Social Welfare Legislation provides that the means test takes account of the income and assets of the person (and spouse/partner if applicable) in receipt of DA. The weekly rate of DA payment depends on the amount of weekly means assessed.
If a person is in receipt of DA and there is a change in their circumstances, for example, absences from employment due to illness, they are entitled to request a review of their DA payment. They can submit any new relevant information to the Department and a new means assessment can be carried out to find what they may be entitled to receive. Where someone on a reduced rate of DA has a loss of income, previously assessed as means, they may receive an increase in their DA weekly payment.
A person can also apply to their local Community Welfare Officer for the means tested Supplementary Welfare Allowance or an Additional Needs payment if they are in need of financial assistance.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
