Dealing with mobility limitations is a significant challenge for many of us, especially when they appear or worsen in old age. In these situations, the mobility allowance is a vital aid. However, it is important to know that there is a statute of limitations for mobility claims. In this article, we will delve into this topic and provide you with comprehensive information that will help you understand your rights and the time limits for exercising them.
The conditions that entitle you to a mobility allowance
The mobility allowance is financial assistance provided by the National Insurance Institute to people who face significant mobility difficulties. Its purpose is to help them cope with the additional expenses associated with limited mobility. To be eligible for this allowance, you must meet several criteria:
- A medical committee from the Ministry of Health must determine the percentage of your mobility disability.
- The mobility difficulties must fit a specific list of pre-defined medical conditions.
- Eligibility is limited to Israeli residents aged 3 to 67 (retirement age for mobility purposes). However, parents of children over 3 years of age with special needs may request an assessment of their child's mobility limitations. In rare cases, a mobility benefit may also be approved for siblings under 3 years of age with severe disabilities.
Despite the above, temporary movement restrictions do not entitle you to this allowance.
Mobility claim statute of limitations: deadline for filing a claim
One of the main questions regarding the statute of limitations for mobility claims is what is the maximum age for filing a first claim. The answer to this is clear: the deadline for filing a new claim is age 67, which is defined as the retirement age for mobility purposes . This point is especially critical for people approaching this age and considering filing a claim.
However, it is important to understand that the statute of limitations does not apply to those who are already receiving the pension. This means that if you began receiving the pension before age 67, you may be able to continue to benefit from it even after that, subject to certain conditions.
Moreover, for people who reached retirement age before 2004, there are special conditions. If you hold a valid driver's license and are able to drive, you may be able to continue receiving full benefits.
Does eligibility for a mobility allowance continue after retirement age?
Although the statute of limitations for mobility claims limits new claims to age 67, there are situations in which you may continue to receive mobility benefits after that age.
Eligibility for continued benefits depends on several factors:
- Receiving a pension near age 67: If you were eligible for a pension near retirement age, there is a good chance that your eligibility will continue.
- Standing loan: If you received a standing loan in the four years prior to age 67, this may affect your continued eligibility.
- Owning a special vehicle: If you own a vehicle that was purchased with an outstanding loan and is still in your use, this is another factor that may support continued eligibility.
Limitation period for mobility claims and retroactive payment
Another important issue in the context of the limitation period for mobility claims is the possibility of receiving retroactive payment. If your application for mobility allowance is approved, you may be entitled to payment for the period prior to the submission of the application. However, it is important to pay attention to the deadlines:
Quick submission
If you submitted all documents to National Insurance within 60 days of receiving the medical certificate from the committee, the benefit may be paid starting from the month in which the process began.
Late submission
If you are more than 60 days late, the retroactive payment will be limited to a period of two months prior to the date of submission of the application.
Remember that the retroactive payment depends on your meeting all eligibility conditions throughout the relevant period.
When may eligibility for mobility allowance be revoked?
Although the limitation period for a mobility claim mainly refers to the date the claim is filed, it is also important to be aware of the other situations in which eligibility for a pension may be revoked:
- A change in medical condition that affects eligibility
- Selling the special vehicle
- Not using the vehicle for an extended period of time
- Long-term hospitalization
- Significant damage to the vehicle without repair
- Extended stay outside Israel
- Failure to meet vehicle update or replacement requirements
Knowing these situations is essential to maintaining eligibility for the pension over time.
Limitation period for mobility claims and the right to appeal
It is important to note that the statute of limitations for a mobility claim does not apply to the right to appeal. Even after you reach retirement age, you can appeal decisions made in your case. There are two main ways to appeal:
- Applying to the Claims Committee: A request for reexamination can be submitted within six months of receiving the original decision.
- Legal appeal: You can appeal to the Labor Court within one year from the date the decision was made.
Remember that an appeal to the Claims Committee does not prevent you from later appealing to the Labor Court, if you wish.
In conclusion
The statute of limitations for a mobility claim is a complex issue with many facets. While the maximum age for filing a first claim is 67, there are options to continue receiving benefits beyond that age in certain circumstances. It is important to know the conditions, limitations, and options in order to maximize your rights. Remember that even if you have reached retirement age, you still have the right to appeal decisions and request a reexamination of your situation.
Of course, the issue of mobility and entitlement to benefits is complex and depends on each person's personal circumstances. Therefore, if you or someone you love is facing mobility difficulties, it is recommended that you seek professional advice. The Imber Golan Partosh Law Firm specializes in this field and can assist you in examining your eligibility and exercising your rights . Do not hesitate to contact us today for advice tailored to your unique situation.
ככלל, לא ניתן להגיש תביעה ראשונה לגמלת ניידות לאחר גיל 67. זהו גיל הפרישה לעניין ניידות ומהווה את הגבול העליון להגשת תביעה חדשה. עם זאת, אם כבר הייתם זכאים לגמלת ניידות לפני הגיעכם לגיל זה, ייתכן שתוכלו להמשיך ליהנות מהטבות מסוימות גם לאחר מכן, בכפוף לתנאים ספציפיים שנקבעו על ידי המוסד לביטוח לאומי. אם הייתם זכאים לקצבת ניידות בתקופה הסמוכה לגיל 67, יש אפשרות להמשיך ולקבל את ההטבות גם לאחר מכן. הדבר תלוי במספר גורמים, כגון: האם קיבלתם קצבת ניידות בסמוך לגיל 67, האם נהניתם מהלוואה עומדת בארבע השנים שקדמו לגיל זה, או אם ברשותכם רכב שנרכש באמצעות הלוואה עומדת. כל מקרה נבחן לגופו, והביטוח הלאומי מתחשב במכלול הנסיבות של כל אדם. לא, בכל הקשור להטבות ניידות, גיל הפרישה זהה עבור גברים ונשים. כלומר, הן גברים והן נשים יכולים להגיש תביעה ראשונה לניידות עד גיל 67. זהו שינוי חשוב לעומת גיל הפרישה הכללי, שבו עדיין קיימים הבדלים מסוימים בין גברים לנשים. בנושא הניידות, המערכת מתייחסת באופן שוויוני לשני המגדרים. כן, אין הגבלת גיל לערעור על החלטות הקשורות לתביעת הניידות. גם לאחר הגיעכם לגיל הפרישה, יש לכם זכות לערער על החלטות שהתקבלו בעניינכם. ישנן שתי דרכים עיקריות לעשות זאת: האחת היא פנייה לוועדת התביעות של הביטוח הלאומי, והשנייה היא הגשת ערעור לבית הדין לעבודה. אמנם מגבלות זמן להגשת ערעורים אלה, אך הן אינן קשורות לגיל המערער אלא למועד קבלת ההחלטה המקורית.
