Carer’s Allowance

What is Carer’s Allowance?

Carer’s Allowance is a benefit for people who are giving regular and substantial care to disabled people. Carer’s Allowance is a taxable benefit and forms part of your taxable income.

Am I eligible for carer’s allowance?

A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member, partner, child, friend or neighbour who cannot manage without the carer’s support. The person you care for may have:

• a disability or illness

• mental health difficulties

• or have alcohol or drug related problems

Am I eligible for carer’s allowance?

The person you care for must already get one of these benefits:

• Personal Independence Payment – daily living component
• Disability Living Allowance – the middle or highest care rate
• Attendance Allowance
• Constant Attendance Allowance at or above the normal maximum rate with an Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
• Constant Attendance Allowance at the basic (full day) rate with a War Disablement Pension
• Armed Forces Independence Payment

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

Carer’s Allowance can affect the other benefits that you and the person you care for get. You have to pay tax on it if your income is over the Personal Allowance.

Visit gov.uk for more information.

How much carer’s allowance may I receive?

Visit gov.uk for more information on Carer’s Allowance, including the current rates and how to make a claim.

How do I apply for Carers Allowance?

Contact the Carer’s Allowance Unit to make a claim.

You can make a claim for Carer’s Allowance online, report a change of circumstances or download the relevant forms at www.gov.uk.

Where can I get benefits advice?

It can be useful to speak with someone about the benefits you may be entitled to and how they may impact upon your other benefits. A local independent advice service such as can help guide you.

Coronavirus Update:

You can claim Carer’s Allowance if you provide care remotely during the coronavirus outbreak. This includes giving emotional support over the phone or online.

Other Useful Information 

Updated 25/08/2021