How it works

You could get £69.70 a week if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits.

You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for.

You do not get paid extra if you care for more than one person.

If someone else also cares for the same person as you, only one of you can claim Carer’s Allowance.

Carer’s Allowance can affect the other benefits that you and the person you care for get. You have to pay tax on it if your income is over the Personal Allowance.

This guide is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg) and in an easy read format.

How you’re paid

You can choose to be paid weekly in advance or every 4 weeks.

It will be paid into an account, for example your bank account.

For each week you get Carer’s Allowance you’ll automatically get National Insurance credits.

You may also be able to apply for:

support from your local council
a Council Tax Reduction
Universal Credit if you’re on a low income or out of work
Pension Credit if you’re over working age
grants and bursaries to help pay for courses and training
Income Support (if you get the severe disability premium and you’re on a low income)
income-based Employment and Support Allowance (if you get the severe disability premium and you cannot work)

If you live in Scotland and get Carer’s Allowance, you may also get Carer’s Allowance Supplement

Get help and advice

You can get more help and advice from: