Social Welfare Eligibility

Tuesday, 29 September 2026

Ceisteanna (491)

Seán Kyne

Ceist:

491. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Social Protection the factors taken into account in determining child benefit entitlement in cases involving a shared-care arrangement; the basis on which an assessment of care arrangements can be revised following Social Welfare Inspector findings; the methodology used to assess the proportion of care provided by each parent; and the procedures in place to ensure both parties have an opportunity to provide relevant information before a determination is made. [68084/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Social Protection

Child Benefit is a monthly payment payable to a qualified person in respect of qualified children. In a shared-care arrangement, if the care is shared on a 50/50 basis, the legislation deems the mother to be the qualified person. Otherwise, legislation states that where the child’s parents reside in separate households, the qualified person is the parent with whom the child resides the majority of the time.

Where conflicting information is received from both parents regarding the child’s care arrangements, a Social Welfare Inspector may be tasked with collecting further relevant information, often through an arranged interview, to assist in the determination of whom the child resides the majority of the time. There is no prescribed methodology used for this assessment; the Deciding Officer must use all relevant information available at that time to determine the outcome.

Customers can request a review or lodge an appeal in respect of the decision.

I hope this clarifies matters for the Deputy.