Carer’s Allowance is a benefit designed to provide an income for someone who provides care for another while claiming certain benefits. Here’s how you can claim it
If you’re caring for your parent or another individual for a certain number of hours, you could be entitled to as much as £327 per month.
Carer’s Allowance is a benefit designed to provide an income for someone who cares for another person while also claiming specific benefits. The allowance can be paid weekly or every four weeks at a rate of £81.90 and can offer additional perks if you’re not employed.
The kind of care that qualifies someone for Carer’s Allowance can vary, but it can include tasks like helping with general household chores such as shopping, cleaning, cooking for someone, or even accompanying the person being cared for to a doctor’s appointment.
Eligibility for Carer’s Allowance
To claim Carer’s Allowance, you must provide care for someone for at least 35 hours a week. Additionally, the person being cared for must also receive certain benefits, including:
Remember, you don’t have to be related to the person you’re caring for or live with them. But if someone else also helps look after the person, only one of you can claim Carer’s Allowance.
Also, bear in mind that you won’t get any extra payments from the benefit if you’re caring for more than one person. To qualify, the following must also apply:.
Other perks with Carer’s Allowance
National Insurance Credits
If your claim is successful, Carer’s Allowance can unlock a number of additional benefits. For example, you can receive National Insurance credits which will help fill any gaps in your National Insurance record and potentially increase your retirement fund.
Other benefit payments
There are also other benefit payments. If you claim Carer’s Allowance, you may be eligible for a number of extra benefits, thus increasing your income.
This can include Universal Credit as long as you’re on a low income or out of work, as well as Pension Credit if you’re over working age.
Council tax reduction
In some instances, if you’re claiming Carer’s Allowance, your local council might offer a reduction on your council tax bill. However, this isn’t a given as different councils have varying rules about who can get a discount.
To find out more, it’s best to contact your local council directly.
How to apply
To apply for Carer’s Allowance, you’ll need to complete this online form here. You’ll also need several documents at the ready, including your National Insurance Number and banking details.
Additionally, you’ll need information about the person you’re caring for, such as their date of birth, address, and National Insurance Number if they’re over 16. Claims can be backdated by up to three months.
You can find comprehensive details on Carer’s Allowance on GOV.UK here.
