Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 July 2022
336. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social Protection the current status of the pension (non-contributory) application for a person (details supplied); when will a decision will be made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38227/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAccording to the records of my Department, the person concerned reached pension age on 27 June 2021 and their application for State pension (contributory) was received on 18 June 2021. There is no record of receipt of an application for State pension (non-contributory).
Under current eligibility conditions for State Pension (contributory), an individual must have 520 full-rate paid contributions in order to qualify for standard State pension (contributory). 520 full-rate contributions equates to 10 years of full-rate insurable employment. Factors such as an individual’s social insurance record, their attachment to the workforce, and their countries of employment affect the rate of pension entitlement.
The contribution history of the person concerned is currently being examined to establish details of the claimant's self-employment. On completion of this, a deciding officer will examine the claimant's entitlement and they will be informed of the decision in writing.
A reduced rate Qualified adult increase is currently in payment in respect of the person concerned. This payment was based on the means of the qualified adult at the time of application. A review of this entitlement can be requested if their means have changed.
When the claimant's contributory pension entitlement is established, the person concerned will be paid the payment which is financially more beneficial to them, their own contributory pension or the qualified adult increase.
It is also open to the person concerned to apply for the State pension (non-contributory). This is a means-tested, residency-based payment for people of pension age. The maximum personal rate is approximately 95% of the maximum rate of contributory pension.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
