Can I claim Carer's Allowance?

What is Carer's Allowance

This applies to England. If you spend a large part of your week looking after someone who needs regular support, help is available. Carer's Allowance is a regular financial payment designed to assist people who provide substantial unpaid care for a friend, family member, or neighbour. You do not necessarily need to live with the person you look after or be related to them. This support can help with everyday living costs while you manage your caring responsibilities.

Because rules and payment rates change, you should check GOV.UK to find the most up-to-date figures. You can also explore other options like help if you care for someone to see what else might be available for you.

Who can get Carer's Allowance: Carer's Allowance eligibility

To qualify for this support, both you and the person you care for must meet specific conditions set by the DWP. Carer's Allowance eligibility depends on providing a high volume of care each week to someone who already receives an approved disability or health-related benefit. If more than one person helps look after the same individual, only one person can receive the payment.

• You must provide care for the required number of hours each week.
• The person you care for must receive an approved disability payment.
• You must meet residency and immigration requirements.

Check GOV.UK to review the exact list of qualifying benefits and time requirements. You can also visit help if you are disabled or ill for more information on the benefits the person you care for might receive.

Earnings limits for Carer's Allowance

Working while caring is possible, but your income must stay below a strict threshold. Your earnings are calculated after taking away allowable expenses, tax, and National Insurance contributions. Expenses can include certain work costs or money spent on care services while you work. If you earn over the limit, your payments will stop.

Because financial thresholds change over time, you should check GOV.UK to find the current earnings cap before applying. You can also use a take-home-pay calculator to understand your net income better. If your employment income is too high, you might still qualify for other non-financial support or credits.

How caring affects other benefits

Getting this support can change other benefits that you or the person you care for receive. For instance, certain severe disability premiums or extra amounts included in other benefits might stop when payments begin. However, your overall household financial position usually stays stable or increases.

If you receive Universal Credit, your payments adjust to account for your caring support. You also receive credits towards your State Pension while receiving this support. To see how your household budget will change, try using a benefits calculator on GOV.UK. You can also check Universal Credit for more details on how means-tested support interacts with other payments.

How to claim Carer's Allowance

Making a claim involves submitting details about your daily routine, your income, and the person you look after. You can apply online through GOV.UK.

1. Gather your National Insurance number, address, and employment details.
2. Check the personal details and benefit information of the person you care for.
3. Submit your online application securely on GOV.UK and keep a record of your submission.

For further guidance on managing household finances or finding extra help, explore help with the cost of living.