Soon to be single parent on illness benefit

[Cluelessmom]

Hi, I'm new to this so forgive me. I have a two year old child and have been co habiting with the father. The relationship has not been good. I have been depressed and on illness benefit for over a year. I have been advised to leave the relationship. 1 problem is that I have an illness protection claim pending. I have no idea how much they will pay (maybe E1500 per month) or if they will back date it. I doubt I will be able to return to work in next few months. I have loaned alot of money for treatment and medication from family. does anyone know if I will be entitled to illness benifit/ single parent allowance or rent allowance if I recieve E1500. I have not been entitled to anything because my partner refused to leave yet shouts about money constantly. I owe so much and will have to relocate, continue paying approx E 400 for meds and treatment,E 400 loan, +/- 600 rent per month & live. Illness benifit just covers my portion of rent now. I cant leave until I know if I will be able to survive and look after my child.

 

[gipimann]

Illness Benefit is based on your PRSI contributions so won't be affected by any other income you receive. Both One Parent Family Payment and Rent Supplement are means-tested.
If you receive Illness Benefit and 1500 per month you would be unlikely to qualify for Rent Supplement as your total income would far exceed the Supplementary Welfare Allowance rate for your family size (currently 230.30 pw).

Edit: You should have a Drugs Payment Scheme card which means you don't have to pay more than 100 euro per calendar month for medication. And you should apply for a medical card if you become a single parent family - although your income would exceed the guidelines, you may be granted a card on hardship grounds.