Robert Troy
Ceist:111. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will clarify the entitlement to illness benefit for those who are self employed. [23163/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 22 May 2024
Ceisteanna (111)
Freagraí scríofa
Illness Benefit is the primary short term income support provided by my Department to those who are unable to work due to illness of any type and who are covered by social insurance.
Eligibility for illness benefit depends on the person's PRSI record and class. People must have made the required number of contributions in class A, E, H or P to qualify.
In general, self-employed people make PRSI contributions at class S which does not count towards eligibility for illness benefit.
If the person is encountering difficulties in meeting their basic financial commitments, it is open for them to contact the Community Welfare Officer at their local Intreo Centre to see if they might qualify for assistance under the terms of the means-tested Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.