Carer’s Allowance
What it is
Carer’s Allowance is the main state benefit for carers. It’s £69.70 a week.
You can get it if
You look after someone for more than 35 hours a week.
You can’t get it if
You get more than £69.70 a week from some other benefits. But it’s still worth applying as you may have what’s called an underlying entitlement to Carer’s Allowance. This can help increase other benefits you’re getting.
Carer’s Credit
What it is
A National Insurance (NI) contribution to help make sure you don’t lose out on some social security benefits, such as the State Pension, because of gaps in your NI record.
You can get it if
You look after someone for more than 20 hours a week and you don’t get Carer’s Allowance.
Carer Premium
What it is
An allowance you get on top of some benefits.
You can get it if
You already get a benefit, such as Income Support or Housing Benefit.
How to claim Carer Premium
Ask about it at your local Jobcentre Plus or Jobs and Benefits Office.
Disability Living Allowance for children
What it is
Between £24.45 and £156.90 a week.
You can get it if
You’re the parent carer of a disabled child.
Check what benefits you can get
Check if you’re entitled to Carer’s Allowance and other benefits with the entitledto benefits calculator.
Get a carer’s assessment
As a carer, you may be eligible for support from your local council. Before you receive any help from your local council, you need to have a carer’s assessment.
Find out how to get a carer’s assessment
Get help and advice
Get expert benefits advice, plus help filling in claim forms, from:
- Carers UK helpline on 0808 808 7777
- Carers Direct helpline on 0300 123 1053
- Age UK on freephone 0800 169 6565
- Citizens Advice on 03444 111 444
- Gingerbread (for single parents) on 0808 802 0925
- Family Rights Group on freephone 0808 801 0366
How to challenge a benefit decision
You can challenge a benefit decision if:
- your benefit payment is stopped
- your claim for a benefit is refused
