John McGuinness
Ceist:634. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if persons (details supplied) are entitled to the fuel allowance scheme. [49886/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 28 November 2017
Ceisteanna (634)
Freagraí scríofa
Fuel allowance is a means tested payment to assist householders on long-term social welfare payments to provide for their heating needs. The payment is not intended to meet those costs in full. Only one allowance is paid per household.
In order to be eligible for fuel allowance, a person must be in receipt of a qualifying payment, satisfy a household means test and live alone or only with certain other qualified people.
The person concerned applied for fuel allowance on 28 October 2014. In addition to their state pension (contributory) payment, the applicant was also in receipt of an occupational pension. Their application was disallowed as their means exceeded the allowable limit at that time. The person was notified of this decision in writing on 14 November 2014. According to the records of my Department, the person concerned has not re-applied for fuel allowance.
In order to satisfy the fuel allowance means test an applicant and their spouse can have a combined weekly household income of up to €100.00 above the maximum rate of state pension (contributory) plus increase for qualified adult. Based on current payment rates this limit is €551.80 per week.
If the circumstances of the person have changed and the person considers that they now satisfy the means test, it is open to them to re-apply for fuel allowance. `On receipt of their application, their eligibility will be examined and they will be notified of the outcome without delay.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.