The largest ever increase to the Carer’s Allowance income limits has come into effect, with more carers in Co Louth expected to qualify for support under the revised scheme. According to Fianna Fáil TD Erin McGreehan, 69 existing Carer’s Allowance recipients in Louth will see an increase in their payments from today as a result of the changes. Figures from the Department of Social Protection show that 3,436 people in the county were receiving Carer’s Allowance at the end of May. The changes significantly increase
the income limits used in the Carer’s Allowance means test, allowing more carers to qualify for the payment while enabling existing recipients to earn more without affecting their entitlement. The weekly income disregard for a single person has increased from €625 to €1,000, while the limit for couples has risen from €1,250 to €2,000. The Government has described the changes as the largest increase in the history of the scheme. Deputy McGreehan welcomed the revised thresholds, saying family carers provide an invaluable service by supporting
loved ones to remain living independently in their homes and communities. “This is the largest increase ever made to the Carer’s Allowance income disregards,” she said. “By significantly increasing the income limits, more people will qualify for support while existing recipients can continue working or increase their hours without losing the payment they rely on.” Nationally, the changes mean 2,696 carers will receive higher Carer’s Allowance payments, while the revised income thresholds are also expected to allow significantly more people to qualify for the scheme
for the first time. Deputy McGreehan said the measures deliver on a commitment in the Programme for Government to progressively increase support for carers, including further increases to the Carer’s Support Grant and a long-term plan to phase out the Carer’s Allowance means test.
Carer’s Allowance, income limits, Louth, Co Louth, Erin McGreehan, Department of Social Protection, Carer’s Support Grant, means test, carers