I'm just looking for some advice please. I've been on Illness Benefit since 2008. I hand in monthly certs and usually get called annually for the medical board.
I've been told that my condition won't improve. Doctors have suggested surgery but have told me there is no guarantee with it and could actually worsen my condition. I even told the medical officer this last year and he agreed with that also. I have medical card but don't get anything for dependent children.
My main questions are these - am I better off on IP - what impact will that make, as in do I still have to hand in certs, get called for the medical officer or is the only difference the €5 more you get on IP as to IB? Is it likely I'd get IP or am I better off as I am on IB. I'm honestly afraid to ring them in case I draw them on me - this is the usual time of year I get my letter for the medical officer. I guess I just don't really understand the difference between the two or which I'm better off on. Any advice appreciated!
I've been told that my condition won't improve. Doctors have suggested surgery but have told me there is no guarantee with it and could actually worsen my condition. I even told the medical officer this last year and he agreed with that also. I have medical card but don't get anything for dependent children.
My main questions are these - am I better off on IP - what impact will that make, as in do I still have to hand in certs, get called for the medical officer or is the only difference the €5 more you get on IP as to IB? Is it likely I'd get IP or am I better off as I am on IB. I'm honestly afraid to ring them in case I draw them on me - this is the usual time of year I get my letter for the medical officer. I guess I just don't really understand the difference between the two or which I'm better off on. Any advice appreciated!