Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2022
706. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Protection if an elderly couple (details supplied) will qualify for the fuel allowance payment following the changes in budget 2023; if so, the way that they can apply for the fuel allowance payment; when the first payment under the new income thresholds is expected to be made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55226/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Fuel Allowance is a contribution towards the energy costs of a household. The payment of €33 per week for 28 weeks (a total of €924 each year) is paid from late September to April. One of the conditions for receipt of fuel allowance is that a person must satisfy a means test.
The person concerned applied for Fuel allowance on 7 October 2022. Following a means assessment, it was determined that the household means were €687.68 which exceeded the permissible weekly means of €610.30 for the household. The application was disallowed, and the person concerned was notified in writing.
From January 2023, there will be a new means threshold for people aged 70 and over, of €500 for a single person and €1,000 for a couple.
The arrangements for applications under the new Fuel Allowance criteria will be announced later in the year.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
