Fibromyalgia and Disability Allowance

terriers mum

Hi,

I have chronic Fibromyalgia (Formally diagnosed in 2020) and have been considering applying for Disability Allowance. I am severely hampered by my chronic, daily pain, but I'm unsure if Fibromyalgia is recognised as a form of disability in Ireland. I know it qualifies as a disability in the UK, but I don't know if the same situation applies here. Has anyone been successful in applying for Disability for Fibromyalgia? If not, does anyone have any advice on how to proceed? To qualify for Jobseeker's Allowance, you must be able for work, and in my current condition, I am not.

Wanderer78

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058214049/fibromyalgia-and-disability-allowance

maybe apply for both disability and invalidity, this will need to be done in conjunction with your doctor, but be prepared for a long review time though, best of luck

SourSessions

There are no qualifying conditions for DA, there are just your personal circumstances hindering your ability to work for at least one year.

Have as much paperwork as you can from GP, consultants, etc, and also a letter from yourself detailing how your illness affects your everyday life. Be prepared to be rejected and have to appeal

Dempo1

Agree with above responses. Each application processed on a case by case basis OP, albeit some illnesses (I believe yours is one) are less complicated in determining a decision, similar to for example an obvious physical disibility.

You clearly have ample medical evidence and reports so this will help greatly.

Keep in mind DA is also means tested so take a look at the link, ideally if you had enough stamps paid, going on illness benefit first and transition to DA would be a better way to proceed.

Finally again depending on means you might be able to apply for a basic SWA payment whilst awaiting for a decision on DA which can take quite some time.

I wish you well

"Disability Allowance" https://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/social_welfare/social_welfare_payments/disability_and_illness/disability_allowance.html