More carers in Meath to qualify for support following changes to Carer’s Allowance
Changes to the means test for Carer’s Allowance will see more carers qualify for the payment in Meath, a Fine Gael Senator has said.
Senator Linda Nelson Murray said 5,280 carers in the country, including 250 in Meath, will receive an increase in their weekly payment as a result of the changes.
The new measures is set to expand eligibility and increase payments for thousands of carers nationwide.
It is also expected that many more carers will now qualify for the payment for the first time under the higher income limits.
“This change to the Carer’s Allowance is a hugely positive step which was announced in Budget 2025,” Ms Nelson Murray said.
“The weekly income disregard for the Carer’s Allowance payment will increase from €450 to €625 for a single person, and from €900 to €1,250 for carers with a spouse/partner.”
“It will mean that 5280 carers across the country will receive an increase in their weekly payment. I am delighted that this includes 250 carers in Meath.”
The Meath West Senator highlighted that the cumulative changes made since 2022 have significantly improved the income thresholds for applicants, with the disregard rising by €292.50 for single carers and €585 for couples.
“The further increase in the income limits this week will mean that 99pc of people receiving Carer’s Allowance will now receive the maximum rate of payment.”
“In addition, these changes will mean that many more carers in Meath who were previously outside the income limits will now qualify for a payment.”
She added: “Our carers play a vital role in our society and we need to support them. This is a welcome step, but we need to go further.”