It is rewarding to care for another person, but it is difficult—both in the wallet and in the heart. In the United Kingdom, there is a Carer’s Allowance which is a payment to provide some kind of financial assistance to individuals who spend most of their time taking care of someone with a disability or a serious illness. If you look after a friend or relative for at least 35 hours a week, you might be able to get this allowance. Here’s what you should know about how it will work, who is eligible, and how to claim.
1. What is Carer’s Allowance?
Carer’s Allowance is a £81.90 (from April 2024) per week payment for someone who cares for someone regularly who receives an eligible disability benefit, such as:
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Daily Living component
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – Middle or Higher rate for care
Attendance Allowance
This payment is intended to reduce the cost of providing care but note that it will affect other benefits you and the person you are caring for are receiving.
2. Who Can Receive Carer’s Allowance?
To receive Carer’s Allowance, you must satisfy the following conditions:
✅ You must look after somebody for a minimum of 35 hours a week.
✅ You must be 16 years old or above.
✅ You cannot be in full-time education or are not earning above £151 per week (after tax and expenditure).
✅ The person being cared for receives a qualifying disability benefit.
You don’t necessarily have to be living with the person you’re caring for, and you do not have to be related.
3. How to Claim Carer’s Allowance?
Claiming Carer’s Allowance is simple. You can claim:
Online – Go to the official Gov.uk website.
By Post – Print the Carer’s Allowance form from the website and post it to the address given.
You will need to give information such as:
Your National Insurance number
The information of the person you care for
Details of any income or benefits you get
After your application is dealt with, payment will be made directly into your bank account, normally every four weeks.
4. Effect on Other Benefits
Carer’s Allowance can impact other benefits, including:
If you’re on Universal Credit, you might get a Carer Element instead of a Carer’s Allowance.
Receiving a Carer’s Allowance may reduce the benefits for the person you look after, for example, a Severe Disability Premium.
If you receive a State Pension, you may still be able to claim Carer’s Allowance but the amount might be reduced.
5. More Support for Carers
Claiming Carer’s Allowance also entitles you to extra assistance:
National Insurance Credits – It helps to safeguard your State Pension entitlement.
Council Tax Reduction – Some councils provide discounts for carers.
Carer’s Passport – Some NHS trusts provide these to provide carers with advantages such as free parking or flexible visiting times.
Common Questions About Carer’s Allowance
1. Can I work and receive Carer’s Allowance?
Yes, provided you earn less than £151 a week after tax and costs.
2. Can I claim Carer’s Allowance if someone else is claiming for the same person?
Just one individual can receive Carer’s Allowance for looking after someone at a time.
3. Do I pay tax on Carer’s Allowance?
Yes, it is taxable income if your overall income is above the tax-free personal allowance.
Final Thoughts
Carer‘s Allowance is a lifeline for those who give up their time and energy to care for others. Although the pay isn‘t astronomical, it can help pay some of the must-haves and provide carers with the thanks they deserve. If you feel you are entitled, don‘t be afraid to claim—it‘s there to aid you in your valuable work.