B51/1993 AMENDMENT TO DEPARTMENTAL INSTRUCTION B37/93 OF 13 JULY 1993 RELATING TO THE IMPROVEMENT OF ASSISTANCE TO CARERS SERVICE PENSIONERS

DATE OF ISSUE: 29 SEPTEMBER 1993

AMENDMENT TO DEPARTMENTAL INSTRUCTION B37/93 OF 13 JULY 1993 RELATING TO THE IMPROVEMENT OF ASSISTANCE TO CARERS SERVICE PENSIONERS

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this Departmental Instruction (DI) is to correct an error contained in DI B37/93 of 13 July 1993.  It is important that this DI be read in conjunction with DI B37/93 when processing Carers Service Pension claims or enquiries.

BACKGROUND

2.DI B37/93 detailed changes to the Carers Service Pension which took effect from 1 July 1993.

3.In particular paragraphs 15 and 16 highlighted changes to earnings credit and the ability to carry over any Earnings Credit Account Balance (ECAB) when transferring to Carers Service Pension.

CURRENT SITUATION

4.Paragraph 16 incorrectly stated:

"Any person who was receiving a DSS/DVA pension and then transferred to Carers Service Pension on or after 1 July 1993, will be able to carry over any ECAB that accrued while they were receiving their previous pension."

CHANGE

5.This sentence should read:

"Any person who was receiving a DSS/DVA pension and then transferred to Carers Service Pension on or after 1 January 1993 will be able to carry over any ECAB that accrued while they were receiving their previous pension."

(section 49B - B2A of the VEA refers)

CONTACT OFFICERS

7.Any enquiries should be directed to the project officer, John Carroll, who can be contacted on (06) 289 6355.  The project manager is Freda Widawski who can be contacted on (02) 213 7431.

NATIONAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR

(BENEFITS)