Carer’s Allowance is the main benefit from the Government for carers. To qualify you don’t have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for.
To get Carer’s Allowance you must meet all the following conditions:
- You look after someone who gets a qualifying disability benefit *
- You look after that person for at least 35 hours a week.
- You are aged 16 or over.
- You are not in full-time education (or 21 hours of education).
- You earn less than the current government limit (after deductions).
- You satisfy UK presence and residence conditions.
Carer’s Allowance is not means-tested – in other words it is not based on your income or savings – but earnings may affect your entitlement.
It is not based on your National Insurance contributions and could give you contributions towards your state pension. However, please note that if you get certain other benefits this can complicate things. There is an over lapping benefit rule which can affect the benefits of both the carer and the person cared for, so it is always advisable to have a benefit check before applying.
Carer’s Allowance is taxable.
To see more information and how to make a claim to apply for Carer’s Allowance click here to the Government website.
For general enquiries, telephone: 0800 731 0297 or look at the Contact the Carer’s Allowance Unit – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) link from the ‘Related content’ link on the Government’s Carers Allowance website.
You cannot receive Carer’s Allowance unless the person you care for receives DLA (Disability Living Allowance) at the middle or higher rate of care, Attendance Allowance or the “daily living component” of their Personal Independence Payment.
If you are receiving a pension, you may not qualify for Carer’s Allowance, but may qualify for a Carer’s Premium.
