Carer's Allowance
Caring can be rewarding but it can also be tiring and stressful, and if you give up work to be a carer it can also have an effect on your finances. Even if you don’t think of yourself as a carer, Carer’s Allowance could help you.
What is Carer's Allowance?
Carer's Allowance is the main welfare benefit to help carers. You may still be able to claim it, even if you don’t think of yourself as a carer.
You don't have to be related to or live with the person you care for to claim Carer's Allowance. It's extra money each week for you to use as you want or need to.
You'll also get National Insurance credits each week towards your State Pension if you're under pension age.
How much could I get?
Carer’s Allowance is paid at £81.90 per week (for April 2024-March 2025) and is usually paid every four weeks.
Am I eligible for Carer's Allowance?
If you think you won’t be eligible to claim Carer’s Allowance because you have some savings, don’t worry. Your savings and your National Insurance record won’t make a difference to your claim.
You could be eligible if you:
- spend at least 35 hours a week caring for a disabled person (you don't have to live with them or be related to them)
- care for someone who receives the middle or higher rate care component of Disability Living Allowance, either rate of Personal Independence Payment daily living component, or any rate of Attendance Allowance
- do not earn more than £151 a week (after deductions)
- are not in full-time education
If you get a State Pension which is greater than £81.90 a week, you cannot be paid Carer's Allowance, even if you meet the above criteria. However you may still wish to make a claim. This is because people whose State Pension is too high to receive Carer's Allowance can be awarded an underlying entitlement which means they should be viewed as a carer for other benefits.
For some people, this underlying entitlement can allow them to access higher amounts of means tested benefits such as Pension Credit or Housing Benefit.
If you’re claiming Universal Credit, you may be able to get an extra amount because of your caring role without actually applying for Carer's Allowance. This is known as a carer element.
Further information if you are a carer
Our information guide 'Carer's Allowance' below has further information on applying for Carer's Allowance, whilst Factsheet 55 has much more detailed information if this is required. Also below, are some other information guides that may be helpful to you if you are a carer.
What should I do next?
Make a claim
You can apply online for Carer's Allowance via the GOV.UK website.
For more information call Age Cymru Advice on 0300 303 44 98