Benefits and allowances
If you are caring for someone
Carer’s Allowance is paid to people who look after someone who is disabled. You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for.
You may qualify for Carer’s Allowance if you meet the following criteria:
- You are aged 16 or over and;
- You spend at least 35 hours a week looking after someone who receives a qualifying benefit (Attendance Allowance, middle or higher rate Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP) daily living component, Constant Attendance Allowance at/above the normal maximum rate with an Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit, or basic (full day) rate with a War Disablement Pension, Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and;
- You are not in full-time education (21 hours a week or more) and;
- You are not earning more than £110 a week if you have a part time job
Payment of Carer’s Allowance may reduce other benefits that are paid to you or the person you look after. If you receive certain other benefits you may not receive payment of Carer’s Allowance but may have what is called an ‘underlying entitlement’ and a premium added to other benefits. Always seek advice before claiming.
You can claim Carer’s Allowance. This service can be used on a smartphone or tablet, is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and may help you make your claim more quickly. The time to complete the claim online is around 24 minutes and has significantly less questions that the paper form. Once submitted, your claim will arrive immediately at the Carer’s Unit. Helpline numbers are provided if you need help.
A Carers Allowance leaflet – ‘Everything you need to know about Carer’s Allowance’ is available at GOV.UK