Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 September 2018
473. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her plans to review and increase the time limit for claiming backdated State pensions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38361/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraFrom April 2012 the period for which a claim for State Pension can be backdated is six months as provided for under the Social Welfare Act 2011.
Developments in the administration of contributory pensions in recent years have facilitated customers in making pension application in a timely manner. Generally customers are more likely now than before to have an attachment to the workforce thus ensuring more awareness of their entitlements arising from their PRSI contributions. This, together with my Department’s focus on providing information to the public, ensures that people are more aware than ever of social welfare schemes and entitlements and are more likely to apply on time.
Late claims for the State pension (contributory) may only be backdated for a maximum period of 6 months. Backdating of a late claim beyond 6 months will be considered in circumstances where the failure to claim arose as the result of either incorrect information having been supplied by my Department, or the claimant’s serious incapacity by illness or infirmity. However, my advice to everyone who approaches the age of 66, and who may potentially have an entitlement to a State pension, is to make a claim to my Department, and generally people will do so.
It is open to anyone to request a copy of their contribution record in order to assess their pension entitlement and request assistance in a number of ways, if needed. Questions about eligibility and conditions can be made by phone, or locally at a customer’s local Intreo Centre, social welfare office or Citizens Information Centre. Queries can also be made using the online enquiry form available on the Department’s website www.welfare.ie or may be sent in writing to Social Welfare Services, College Road, Sligo.
In addition my Department provides a general information telephone service, where people can get information on the wide range of schemes and services operated by the Department.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
