Mobility Allowance

The Mobility Allowance is a means tested monthly payment payable by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to people aged between 16 - 66 who have a disability and are unable to walk or use public transport and who would benefit from a change in surroundings; (for example, by financing the occasional taxi journey). If an allowance is awarded, it will be continued beyond the age of 66 but you may not apply for the allowance if you are aged 66 or over.

There is no specific legislation in Ireland providing for Mobility Allowance. Instead, this Allowance was introduced in 1979 by the Department of Health and Children and is payable under Section 61 of the Health Act, 1970.

Eligibility

You are eligible for a mobility allowance if you meet the following conditions:

You are unable to walk, even with the use of artificial limbs or other suitable aids, or your health is such that the exertion required to walk would be dangerous
The inability to walk must be likely to last for at least a year
You must not be medically forbidden to move
You must be in a position to benefit from a change in surroundings
You must be living at home or in a long-term institution
You must pass a means test.

The decision on whether or not you meet the medical criteria is made by the Health Service Executive (HSE) Senior Area Medical Officer in your area.

Since 1 July 2002, if you receive a Motorised Trancport Grant, having previously received the Mobility Allowance, you will no longer receive the Mobility Allowance as the payment of a Motorised Transport Grant is subject to the condition that the HSE will not be called upon at any future date to contribute towards the running costs of the vehicle. You will not be eligible for the Mobility Allowance again until three years after the date of payment of the Motorised Transport Grant.

Rates

The allowance is paid monthly. A lower rate is payable to people who are availing of the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers Scheme.

The rates for 2010 and 2011 are: