Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 June 2024
18. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection if any action is needed by recipients of reduced payment of carer's allowance on the planned increase in household income criteria; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25385/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government acknowledges the crucial role that carers play in Irish society and is fully committed to supporting carers in that role.
Carer's Allowance 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.
There are currently 96,742 recipients of Carer’s Allowance. The projected expenditure on Carer’s Allowance in 2024 is approximately €1.1 billion.
On Thursday 6 June 2024, the income disregards for Carer’s Allowance increased from €350 to €450 for a single person, and from €750 to €900 for carers with a spouse or partner.
The change will not affect customers in receipt of the full weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance. However, anyone in receipt of a reduced weekly rate of payment of Carer’s Allowance due to their household means will see an increase in their payment from June 6th onwards. Payments have been automatically adjusted to take account of the new income disregard and no action is required on the part of the carer.
I hope that answers the Deputy's query.
