Carer's Allowance: Financial Support for Carers

What is Carer's Allowance?

Carer's Allowance is a payment for people who spend at least 35 hours a week providing care to someone who receives a qualifying disability benefit. It's intended to help with the carer's living costs and can be received alongside other benefits.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Carer's Allowance, you must:

Be aged 16 or over.
Spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone.
Not earn more than £128 a week (after deductions) from other work.
Be in the UK when you claim (there are some exceptions).
Not be in full-time education.
The person you care for must be receiving a qualifying disability benefit.

How to Claim Carer's Allowance

Claiming Carer's Allowance involves a straightforward process:

Check Eligibility: Ensure both you and the person you care for meet the eligibility criteria.
Complete the Application: Apply online through the government's official website or request a paper form.
Provide Necessary Information: You'll need details about your income, the hours you care, and the benefits the person you're caring for receives.
Submit Your Claim: After filling out the application, submit it online or send it by post.

Impact on Other Benefits

Receiving Carer's Allowance can affect the benefits that both you and the person you care for receive. It's counted as income when calculating other benefits, but you might also be eligible for a Carer Premium or additional amounts on other benefits you receive.

Tips for Carers

Keep Records: Document the care you provide and any expenses incurred.
Seek Support: Look into other forms of support available for carers, such as Carer's Credit or local carer support services.
Stay Informed: Benefits can change, so keep up to date with the latest information.

Carer's Allowance is a crucial benefit for many people who provide essential care to family members or friends with significant health needs. It recognises the invaluable contribution carers make and provides them with financial support to help manage their responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim Carer's Allowance if I'm caring for more than one person?

While you can care for more than one person, Carer's Allowance can only be claimed for caring for one person for at least 35 hours a week.

What happens to my Carer's Allowance when the person I care for goes into hospital?

Carer's Allowance may continue for up to 12 weeks if the person you care for goes into hospital, as long as you continue to meet the other eligibility criteria.

Does receiving Carer's Allowance affect the state pension?

Carer's Allowance does not count towards your State Pension. However, you may qualify for Carer's Credit, which helps fill gaps in your National Insurance record.

Can I get Carer's Allowance if I live in the same household as the person I care for?

Yes, you can receive Carer's Allowance regardless of whether you live with the person you care for or not.

Is Carer's Allowance taxable?

Carer's Allowance is taxable. Whether you pay tax on it depends on your total income, including the allowance and any other sources.

How does Carer's Allowance affect other benefits I receive?

Receiving Carer's Allowance may reduce other means-tested benefits you get, but you might be eligible for a Carer Premium or additional amounts in other benefits.

What is the Carer Premium and how do I qualify?

The Carer Premium is an extra amount added to some means-tested benefits for people who get Carer's Allowance. You qualify if you receive Carer's Allowance.

Can I claim Carer's Allowance if I'm not from the UK?

You can claim Carer's Allowance if you're not from the UK, but you must meet certain residency and presence conditions, including the right to reside.

What is the Carer's Credit and how is it different from Carer's Allowance?

Carer's Credit is a National Insurance credit for carers not eligible for Carer's Allowance, helping protect their State Pension entitlement.

How do I report a change in circumstances for Carer's Allowance?

You must report any changes that could affect your Carer's Allowance eligibility, such as changes in the hours you care, your income, or the person you care for's situation.