Entitlement to which of the following is subject to a means test? (i) State Pension (Non-Contributory) (ii) State Widow's Pension (Non-Contributory) (iii) State Pension (Contributory)

• A. (i) and (ii) only
• B. (i) and (iii) only
• C. (ii) and (iii) only
• D. (i), (ii) and (iii)

Answer: (A)

Means testing is used to determine eligibility for benefits based on current income and assets, targeting payments to those with lower means. The State Pension (Non-Contributory) and State Widow’s Pension (Non-Contributory) are designed as safety nets and are assessed with a means test to see if a person’s income and assets fall within the limits; if they exceed those limits, eligibility is reduced or denied.

The State Pension (Contributory), on the other hand, depends on the person’s history of PRSI contributions. It is not determined by a means test; eligibility and entitlement come from contribution records rather than current income or assets.

Therefore, the entitlements subject to a means test are the first two pensions, while the contributory pension is not. That’s why the correct choice includes only (i) and (ii).