Carer's Allowance is a government benefit for people who care for someone at least 35 hours a week and who receives certain benefits. You do not need to be related to or live with the person you care for.
What you get: You could receive £83.30 a week, paid either weekly in advance or every 4 weeks, directly into your bank account. For each week you get Carer's Allowance, you will automatically receive National Insurance credits.
- You may also be eligible for support from your local council, Council Tax Reduction, Universal Credit (if you’re on a low income or out of work), Pension Credit (if you’re over working age), and grants or bursaries for courses and training.
- Carer's Allowance can affect other benefits you and the person you care for receive. You may need to pay tax on it if your income is over the Personal Allowance.
- If someone else also cares for the same person, only one of you can claim Carer’s Allowance.
Special notes for Scotland: If you live in Scotland, you need to apply for Carer Support Payment instead. If you move between England, Wales, and Scotland, you must notify the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) or Social Security Scotland and make a new claim as appropriate. Payments may stop 13 weeks after moving, so apply as soon as possible to avoid disruption.
This guide is also available in Welsh and in an easy read format.
- You must care for someone at least 35 hours a week.
- The person you care for must receive certain benefits.
- You do not need to be related to or live with the person you care for.
- Only one person can claim Carer's Allowance for the same cared-for person.
- If you live in Scotland, apply for Carer Support Payment instead.