Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 April 2021
679. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social Protection if the qualified adult allowance under the contributory pension for a person (details supplied) can be backdated to when they turned 66 years of age; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22180/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing review, the Increase for qualified adult (IQA), payable with State pension (contributory) in this case, has been backdated to 24 January 2020, six months from the date of receipt of the original IQA application. The person concerned was notified in writing of this decision and the arrears due to her on 26 April 2021.
Current social welfare legislation on late claims stipulates that claims received on or after 5/6 April 2012 may only be backdated for a maximum of six months.
Backdating of a late claim beyond six 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. In either case, relevant documentary evidence should be provided by the person concerned.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
