Q.  What social welfare support is there to help with heating costs in the winter?

10.09.12

The National Fuel Scheme helps people who are dependent on long-term social welfare payments as their sole income and who are unable to meet their heating needs. Under the scheme a Fuel Allowance of €20 per week is paid during the fuel season, which for 2012/2013 starts on Monday, 8 October 2012 and finishes on Friday, 5 April 2013. It is a means-tested payment, but if you are only getting a non-contributory payment you are accepted as satisfying the means test.

The means test is linked to the maximum rate of the State Pension (Contributory). You can have a combined weekly income of €100 above this rate and still be eligible. This means that you can have capital/savings, providing they are less than €58,000 (which is equivalent to just over €100 a week under the capital means assessment rules.) For example, someone without any savings, but working part-time, who is receiving a Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil Partner’s Contributory Pension of €193.50 per week should qualify if his/her weekly income does not exceed €330.30 (State Pension maximum rate €230.30 plus €100).

Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741

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