Carer's Allowance

How it works

You could get £64.60 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.

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).

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.

What else you can get

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
• Income Support if you’re on a low income
• income-based Employment and Support Allowance if you cannot work because of a medical condition or disability
• Pension Credit if you’re over working age

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

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