Disability Allowance (DA) is a weekly allowance paid to people with a specified disability who are aged 16 or over and under the age of 66. This disability must be expected to last for at least one year and the allowance is subject to a medical assessment, means test and the habitual residency conditions.
Recognising that all work is rehabilitative, the DA scheme is structured to encourage recipients to avail of opportunities to engage in either insurable employment or self-employment. The first €165 of weekly earnings is disregarded for the means test, and 50% of the next €210 (€165–€375) is also disregarded. Any income above €375 is fully assessed. It is important to note, there are no restrictions on the number of hours worked.
I can confirm that every opportunity is given to DA recipients to submit requested information to determine their means. DA payments are not disallowed where required information is supplied or contact is maintained with the Department.
Where means exceed the DA limits following these disregards, recipients may retain their Free Travel Pass for five years. A fast-track reinstatement process is also available for those whose employment ceases within 12 months of taking up work.
The Department understands the many pressures faced by people and always seeks to ensure that reviews are processed quickly and efficiently. Each decision made following a review is open to a further review and/or an appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals office. Operational processes, procedures and the organisation of work are continually reviewed to ensure that processing capability is maximized.
The Department continues to keep the range of income and employment supports under review. Any proposed changes to the supports provided must also be considered in an overall budgetary context.
If the Deputy has a particular case in mind, the details can be provided to the Department for examination.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
