Disability Allowance

This is a long term means tested payment made to people with a disability where the disability is anticipated to last at least a year.

Who qualifies

You must be

• Aged between 16 and 66
• Satisfy both a means and habitual residency test
• Have a specified disability which results in your being 'substantially handicapped' in carrying out work which would otherwise be suitable for a person of your age, experience and qualifications.
• Your means and that of your spouse/partner are taken into account. Your parents' means are not considered.

Payment

This allowance is payable up to age 66 once the means and medical conditions are met. Two personal rates of this allowance are paid to a couple where each is eligible for the allowance.

If a person becomes a long stay patient in hospital or in residential care, the person retains their existing payment. A person is continued to be paid the fullrate if they are in part-time residential care. A person may also qualify for Living Alone Allowance, Free Travel and Benefits in Kind. If a person is a resident in an institution and you are not eligible for a social welfare payment they may qualify for a new Disability Allowance payment per week.

How to apply

Complete application form (DA1) available from post offices, your local Social Welfare Office or Disability Allowance Section, Social Welfare Services Office, Government Buildings, Ballinalee Rd, Longford Ph: 043 45211 or 01 7043000