Which one of the following factors does NOT impact on Alistair's ability to claim the State Widower's (Contributory) Pension following the recent death of his wife?

• A. Whether he has remarried since his wife's death
• B. His late wife's PRSI contribution record
• C. His PRSI contribution record
• D. His level of income from other sources

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that the State Widower’s Contributory Pension is a contributory payment, so eligibility depends on PRSI contribution history rather than how much money you have coming in from other sources. Whether Alistair has remarried affects entitlement—remarriage typically ends a Contributory pension. The late wife’s PRSI record matters because the deceased’s contributions help establish whether the survivor qualifies and at what rate. The individual’s own PRSI record also plays a role, since meeting certain PRSI contribution requirements is part of qualifying for a Contributory pension. However, the level of income from other sources is not used in determining eligibility for this pension because it is not means-tested. Therefore, income from other sources does not impact his ability to claim.