Can self employed get illness benefit

amber2

My dad is 63 and has run his own business for the last 40 odd years. He has worked and paid tax since he left school to start an apprenticeship when he was 15.

He inquired last year about winding up the business but was told that he was entitled to nothing from the state by way of an income i.e. an old age pension until the age of 66. He was diagnosed some time ago with cancer which we have found out in the last few days is spreading and i am just wondering if he shuts the business is he entitled to any thing from the state like illness benefit. Also i told him to apply for a medical card which he probably wont get as this is means tested but worth a shot for the illness he has. Any info appreciated. Thanks.

Sue Ellen

Your Dad won't have an entitlement to Illness Benefit as you don't qualify on S class contributions. He can make an application and he will be able to go to the Community Welfare Officer in the meantime and they may be able to help you with payment.