Paul McAuliffe
Ceist:703. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Social Protection to reinstate the disability allowance payment of a person (details supplied). [37638/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 19 May 2026
Ceisteanna (703)
Freagraí scríofa
Disability Allowance is a means-tested payment for people with a specified disability whose income falls below certain limits and who are aged between 16 and are under 66.
As a matter of good practice to assure the integrity of payments and to reduce the level of overpayments the Department has an ongoing process of reviewing a sample of claims in payment each year. As part of the review process people in receipt of means-tested payments who are selected for review are asked to provide evidence of their means. In some cases where payment, such as DA, is also dependent on a person continuing to be incapable of work the person may be asked to provide up to date evidence to that effect. Where a review indicates that the person's means exceed the scheme thresholds or that their condition has improved such that they are now capable of work their payment is suspended or closed. This prevents further overpayments arising and prevents the accumulation of significant debts. In addition if a person does not provide the information requested as part of the review within the time provided a payment can be suspended. All decisions with respect to suspension or closing of a claim can be reviewed and appealed
In this case the means of the person concerned were reviewed. Following receipt of all requested information the person concerned had their Disability Allowance reinstated on 14 May 2026, with first payment to issue 20 May 2026.
Arrears owed for the period 22 April 2026 to 13 May 2026 shall issue to the person concerned on the same date, 20 May 2026.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.