Hello,
I am writing on behalf of a friend who has repatriated to Ireland and is receiving social benefits due to limited income.
She will be 70 this September, is renting and living in an apartment. She has never owned property in Ireland before.
My question: If her daughter gave her a gift of approximately 100,000 euro and my friend purchased a home (a primary residence for herself), would this "temporary" extra income put her above the "means limit" and would she lose the benefits she is, currently, eligible for?
A mortgage would not be involved. After she purchased her home, her income level would revert to what it is presently, ostensibly, making her eligible for the benefits again.
Would she be entitled to purchase her first home and still be able to receive her benefits?
Forgive me, but my understanding of the Irish benefits system is very limited. I hope I have properly conveyed the gist of her question.
My friend has asked me to pose the question as she feels she could not properly express herself at her local Health Center.
Thank you so very much for your time and assistance,