Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 January 2026
703. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Social Protection if travel expenses such as an employee's mileage is taken into account when being assessed for carer's allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4043/26]
View answerCarer's Allowance (CA) is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a child or an adult who has such a disability that as a result they require that level of care.
A travel expenses disregard is included in the CA means assessment on an administrative basis at a rate of €15.00. However, carers may submit evidence (e.g., mileage logs, fuel receipts) if their travel costs exceed €15.00 per week, and the Department may allow a higher deduction. No disregard applies if travel expenses are already reimbursed by an employer or claimed via a cycle-to-work scheme.
If the Deputy has a particular case in mind, you might provide the relevant details so that my officials can examine the specific case.
I hope this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
