Are you caring for someone who is receiving the care component of Disability Living Allowance at the middle or higher rate, or Attendance Allowance? If so, you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. You need to be aged 16 or over and caring for someone for at least 35 hours a week to qualify for this benefit.

You don’t need to be related to, or living with, the person you care for.

You can be working, but there is a weekly earnings limit of £100 a week after certain deductions. You cannot claim Carer’s Allowance if you are studying full-time (21 hours a week or more).

Carer’s Allowance is £55.55 a week, with extra amounts for dependent adults. If you are awarded Carer’s Allowance you may also be entitled to the Carer’s Premium. This is an extra amount of money that can be added to Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Pension Credit.

Carer’s Allowance overlaps with certain benefits, including:

• Contribution-based Employment and Support Allowance

• State Retirement Benefit
  
   
• Widow’s and Bereavement benefits
  
   
• Maternity Allowance
  
   
• Severe Disablement Allowance
  
   
• Contribution-based Jobseeker’s Allowance.

You cannot be paid Carer’s Allowance if your receive the same amount or more from these overlapping benefits. However, it may still be worth claiming Carer’s Allowance because you might become eligible for a means-tested benefit such as Pension Credit. If you are already receiving means-tested benefits, you could receive the Carer’s Premium. You may also receive a Christmas bonus and National Insurance contribution credits towards other benefits.

Claiming Carer’s Allowance can affect the benefits claimed by the person you care for. It is a good idea to speak to a benefits adviser, who will be able to advise you on the best course of action for you and the person you care for.

How can I claim Carer’s Allowance?

You can get a claim form from the Disability and Carers Service on 028 9090 6186.  You can apply online at www.direct.gov.uk/do-it-online.  You can also get a pack from your local Jobcentre Plus or Social Security office.

You may be entitled to other financial help such as Income Support, Pension Credit, disability benefit or help with health costs.

Have a look at the other sections on this site which are relevant to your situation. For more information speak to a benefits adviser, who can advise you on your entitlements and help you with claims.