Access to Rent Supplement can be provided on referral by Cuan-funded service providers. This provides victims of domestic violence with a fast-track approval and screening process with a simplified means test to get immediate access to Rent Supplement so that they are not prevented from leaving their home because of financial concerns.
The standard Rent Supplement means test does not apply to these applicants for an initial three-month period. After three months, a further three-month extension may be provided subject to the standard Rent Supplement means assessment. There are no circumstances in which Rent Supplement can be accessed for more than three months without a means test. At this point the applicant’s income is assessed, and this may affect the amount of Rent Supplement they are awarded.
While PRSI deductions and reasonable travel expenses can be considered for the standard Rent Supplement means test, other outgoings/expenses, such as mortgage payments, are not taken into account.
I understand however that there will always be exceptional cases and it is for this reason that my Department provides Additional Needs Payments as part of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme. Financial assistance may be provided to assist those who have essential expenses, such as rent deposits, rent in advance and household bills, that they cannot pay from their weekly income at this time.
Any person who considers that they may have an entitlement to an Additional Needs Payment is encouraged to contact their local community welfare service. There is a National Community Welfare Contact Centre in place - 0818-607080 - which will direct callers to the appropriate office. In addition, applications can be made online via www.mywelfare.ie.
If the Deputy has concerns about a particular case, I would ask her to bring it to the attention of my Department.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
