What benefits can I claim if I am a carer?
If you spend a large amount of time caring for someone who gets a qualifying disability benefit, you may get Carer’s Allowance in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, or Carer Support Payment in Scotland. Both usually need at least 35 hours a week of care and have an earnings limit.
Carer’s Allowance can overlap with other income-replacement benefits. Many carers are better off claiming Universal Credit as well, because of the carer element, even if Carer’s Allowance is deducted. The only honest way to see the net effect is the official calculator and a full eligibility check.
Benefits this usually points to
Carer's Allowance
A payment if you spend a lot of time caring for someone who gets certain disability benefits. Scotland has Carer Support Payment instead for most new claims.
Carer Support Payment
A Scottish benefit replacing Carer's Allowance for people living in Scotland who care for someone getting a qualifying disability benefit.
Universal Credit
A monthly payment to help with living costs if you are on a low income, out of work, or cannot work. It can include amounts for housing, children, disability, and caring.
Council Tax Reduction
Help from your local council if you are on a low income and need to pay council tax. Each council runs its own scheme, so the rules and amounts vary.
Check what may apply in your circumstances
It usually takes about 5 minutes. You do not need to create an account. This is guidance, not a government decision.
The person you care for must get a qualifying benefit
Carer payments are tied to the other person’s PIP, Adult Disability Payment, Attendance Allowance or another listed payment. If they have not claimed that extra-cost benefit yet, that claim is often the first step — for them, not for you.
Scotland
New carer claims in Scotland are usually Carer Support Payment, not Carer’s Allowance. The hours and earnings ideas are similar; the administrator is Social Security Scotland.
Other circumstances
- What benefits can I claim if I have a disability?
- What benefits can I claim over State Pension age?
- What benefits can I claim on a low income?
- What benefits can I claim if I am unemployed?
- What benefits can I claim as a single parent?
- What benefits can I claim if I am pregnant?
- What benefits can I claim if I rent?
- What benefits can I claim if I am self-employed?
This is independent guidance. Only the relevant government department can confirm eligibility. How we source and verify.