Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2021
364. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Social Protection if it is possible to receive the pandemic unemployment payment retrospectively in cases in which a person did not claim the payment at the time despite being entitled to it; if so, the process for making a claim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36402/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn common with all other social welfare schemes, claims for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment should be made in a timely manner. The quickest and easiest way to apply for the payment is online at www.MyWelfare.ie. The prescribed time for making a claim for the Pandemic Unemployment Payment is in line with the provisions applying to Jobseeker's Benefit and Allowance, and claims should be made on the first day that a person is unemployed. If a person makes a late application they may lose out on payment. Social welfare legislation also provides that where a claimant proves to the satisfaction of a deciding officer or an appeals officer that there was good cause for the delay in making a claim, then the claim may be backdated. However, payment cannot be made for any period exceeding 6 months before the date on which the claim was made.
The Pandemic Unemployment Payment will close to new applications from 8 July 2021. A person who wishes to make a retrospective application for periods prior to that date should do so in writing by contacting my Department. As part of that process, the individual will need to outline the reasons for the delay in their application. Their application will then be considered by a deciding officer.
I hope that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
