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Benefits for carers
If you care for someone who receives Attendance Allowance or, Disability Living Allowance Care Component at the middle or higher rate, you may be able to claim Carer's Allowance.
To qualify for Carer's Allowance you must:
- be providing care for at least 35 hours per week.
- not earn more that £95.00 per week if you are also working.
- not be in full time education.
Carer's Allowance can be claimed by carers aged over 16.
It is unusual for it to be paid to those over 65, as it cannot be paid alongside a State Retirement Pension. If you are entitled to a State Pension which is higher in value than Carer's Allowance, no Carer's Allowance will be paid.
Sometimes it can be beneficial for you to claim even though you cannot be paid, because confirmation of you as a carer can lead to higher amounts of Pension Credit, and rent and Council Tax rebates.
A word of caution however, sometimes claiming and receiving Carer's Allowance can make the person you are caring for worse off. The Benefits Helpline can help you decide whether to claim.
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