Care and support

Carer's allowance

What is it?

Carer’s allowance (CA) can be paid to you if you look after someone who receives either attendance allowance, or the middle or higher rate of the care part of disability living allowance, for 35 hours or more each week. You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person you look after, and you can also earn up to £95.00.00 a week.

How much is paid?

The basic weekly benefit is £50.55 – but you may not be paid any benefit if you are already getting the same amount or more of a different benefit, eg state retirement pension or incapacity benefit. However, you should still have an ‘underlying’ entitlement to carer’s allowance, even if you do not receive it, which may give you extra pension credit or housing or council tax benefit or could mean that you become entitled to them for the first time. If you are in this position you should always notify the Pension Service and relevant benefit office of your ‘underlying’ entitlement to carer’s allowance so that you don’t miss out on extra benefit.

How to claim

You can get the DS700 claim form from the Benefit Enquiry Line, Tel: 0800 882200. The Carer’s Allowance Unit’s number is 01253 856123. If you have speech or hearing problems, dial 01772 899489. Alternatively, you can download the claim form from: www.dwp.gov.uk

N.B. By claiming CA you may adversely affect the benefits of the person you look after - always seek advice before making a claim for CA.