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The HomeCaring Periods Scheme makes it easier for you as a home carer to qualify for a higher rate of State Pension (Contributory) when you reach pension age.
HomeCaring Periods can only be used under the new State Pension Contributory Aggregated Calculation Method of pension calculation
A HomeCaring period may be awarded for each week not already covered by a paid or credited social insurance contribution, where you were caring for someone in one of the categories below.
You can only be awarded HomeCaring Periods if you were born on or after 1 September 1946.
To be eligible, you must:
It is important to note that only one person can benefit from a HomeCaring Period for supporting a child or adult at any one time
For example:
Only one parent can benefit from one HomeCaring Period for one child at any one time.
Applications will only be considered once you have submitted your application for State Pension (Contributory).
The quickest way to apply is to submit a claim via MyWelfare, all information on the application process is supplied here .
For anyone who cannot access the MyWelfare platform, please call (01) 471 5898 and request an application form.
Tel: (01) 471 5898 (If calling from outside the Republic of Ireland please call + 353 1 471 5898)
Locall: 1890 690 690 (Note: the rates charged for using 1890 (Lo-call) numbers may vary)
Operational guidelines describe the processes and procedures that staff in the department follow when carrying out their work.
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