Carer’s Allowance is a weekly benefit for people who spend a large part of their week caring for someone. You could get £86.45 a week if you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week and that person receives certain qualifying benefits.
You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for. According to GOV.UK, this guide covers the Carer’s Allowance amount, who qualifies, how and when you’re paid, and the extra help you may be able to claim alongside it.
Who is eligible for Carer’s Allowance?
The core rule is straightforward: you must care for someone for at least 35 hours a week, and the person you care for must get certain qualifying benefits. GOV.UK sets out the full list of those benefits on its eligibility page.
- 35 hours a week: you provide care for at least this many hours every week.
- Qualifying benefits: the person you care for must already receive one of the benefits that count towards Carer’s Allowance.
- No family or living requirement: you do not need to be related to the person or live at the same address.
A few limits apply. You do not get paid extra for caring for more than one person. If someone else also cares for the same person, only one of you can claim Carer’s Allowance. Check the full eligibility conditions at gov.uk/carers-allowance before you apply.
How much is Carer’s Allowance?
The current rate is £86.45 a week. This figure can change, so confirm the latest amount directly on the official Carer’s Allowance page at gov.uk/carers-allowance.
Keep in mind that Carer’s Allowance can affect the other benefits that both you and the person you care for receive. You also have to pay tax on it if your income is over your Personal Allowance, so it counts as taxable income.
How and when is Carer’s Allowance paid?
You choose how often you get your money. Payment goes into an account, such as your bank account.
- Weekly in advance: you receive the payment at the start of each week.
- Every 4 weeks: the payments are grouped and paid on a four-weekly cycle.
Pick whichever schedule suits your budget when you apply.
What else can you get with Carer’s Allowance?
Claiming brings benefits beyond the weekly payment. For each week you get Carer’s Allowance, you automatically receive National Insurance credits, which help protect your record towards the State Pension.
You may also be able to apply for further support:
- Support from your local council: help with the cost of care through social services.
- Council Tax Reduction: a possible cut to your Council Tax bill.
- Universal Credit: if you’re on a low income or out of work.
- Pension Credit: if you’re over working age.
- Grants and bursaries: money to help pay for courses and training.
Each of these has its own rules, so check whether you qualify separately.
How do I claim Carer’s Allowance?
You apply through GOV.UK at gov.uk/carers-allowance. The guide is also available in Welsh (Cymraeg) and in an easy read format, and you can view a printable version of the whole guide from the same page.
Before you start, have details of the person you care for and their qualifying benefit to hand. If you want to check anything about your claim, the Carer’s Allowance Unit handles enquiries.
What if I live in Scotland?
Carer’s Allowance has been replaced in Scotland. If you live in Scotland, you need to apply for Carer Support Payment instead, through mygov.scot rather than GOV.UK.
If you already get Carer’s Allowance and move from England or Wales to Scotland, you must tell DWP and make a new claim for Carer Support Payment. Your Carer’s Allowance stops 13 weeks after you move, so apply for Carer Support Payment as soon as you can after moving, or your payments could be affected.
You must also tell DWP and apply for Carer Support Payment if you’re waiting for the outcome of a Carer’s Allowance application, or you’ve challenged a decision about your claim.
What if I move from Scotland to England or Wales?
If you get Carer Support Payment and move to England or Wales, report your move to Social Security Scotland and make a new claim for Carer’s Allowance. Social Security Scotland will tell you when your Carer Support Payment stops.
Apply for Carer’s Allowance as soon as you move. If you delay, your payments could be affected.
What is the Carer’s Allowance overpayment reassessment?
DWP is reassessing Carer’s Allowance overpayments that happened between 10 April 2015 and 2 September 2025. If you’ve been affected, you may get a refund, or your debt could be reduced or cancelled.
You do not need to contact the Carer’s Allowance Unit about a reassessment. DWP will contact you with a decision, or if they need more information from you.
