If disability claim approved??

Hi - My son who is 19 is being visited by an inspector tomorrow re a disability claim. I have met the inspector before a few months back when she came to visit re my opfp random check.

I discussed his condition with her at the time back in March and we went through options - he can work but will never work full time, etc. I was very dubious about him applying as I didnt want him to be on a benefit from such a young age, I'm always hoping for developments in medicine that will enable him live a more normal life.

Anyway, I spoke to her via telephone today, and her view is that it is a straightforward claim. I work part time with reduced opfp. I wish to come off opfp if he indeed is successful in his claim which I am optimistic about. I would like to perhaps switch to fis as I have a 12year old and though I will be down a 30eu a week, My older son would have his own money so to speak. Can this be done easily enough? And can my son do some sort of FAS course as it is important he mixes and not be at home or with his grandparents constantly which is invariably what happens.

Thanks in advance.

If you have filled in the necessary application form -the inspector will more than likely be coming to assess means. As far as I am aware, if on Disability Allowance your son will be assessed as an individual - your income wont be factored into the means test. The conditions for entitlement are that the injury, disease or illness must have and is expected to continue for at least a year. He must be substantially restricted in ability to undertake work that would otherwise be suitable for a person of his age, education and level of experience. He'd qualify for the age criteria and also the habitual criteria. After a period of time on Disability - customers can go on rehabilitation courses (contact fas, rehab etc). They may also do FAS CE courses.

Thank you Annet. I know hes assessed on his own means for which he has none as I claim for him. His condition will be the same for the rest of his life unless something amazing is discovered."

At least he'll be individually assessed. He also has the option of getting an excemption from the DSFA which would also allow him work 15 hours receive a wage and retain his s/w rate of pay. Similar entitlements under the CE programme where he'll have two payments CE and his DA - and retain his secondary entitlements. Another option may be further education - however don't quote me - but he may have to wait six months for eligibility. He could also do voluntary work - if he can show that its of a rehabilation nature and also good for his overall well-being.