Financial and legal support for carers

Contents

Carer's Allowance

Carer's Allowance is a benefit for anyone aged 16 or over who spends at least 35 hours each week caring for someone.

How it works

If you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits you will be entitled to claim carers allowance.

You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you care for.

You do not get paid extra if you care for more than one person.

If someone else also cares for the same person as you, only one of you can claim Carer's Allowance.

More information about the Carer's Allowance

Age UK - a clear guide with general advice that is useful to all carers, not just older people
Carers UK - includes a comprehensive guide and video
Disability Rights UK - a general overview presented as a factsheet for easy printing

Other financial help

Carers UK produce a guide named Looking after someone, which includes an overview of the benefits you or the person you care for may be entitled to, as well as details of other financial help such as help with council tax, fuel costs, pensions and health costs.

You can use an online benefits calculator to find out what benefits you may be entitled to and how to claim for them. You'll need information about your income, outgoings, savings and any benefits you currently receive. You can also check that the person you are caring for is receiving everything they are entitled to.

If you pay council tax and are on a low income you can apply for council tax relief. You will need to do this through your local city or district council.

Carersmart.org is a club from Carers Trust which gives you and the person you care for access to benefits, discounts and exclusive special offers. They are currently offering cashback on shopping, better rates from energy providers, and discounts on insurance, holidays and activities.