Who is eligible for Carer's Allowance?
To qualify for Carer's Allowance, you must meet specific criteria related to your age, caring hours, earnings, education, and residency. As of April 2025, the weekly earnings limit after deductions is £196. You must be at least 16 years old, care for someone for a minimum of 35 hours per week, not be in full-time education, and meet UK residency requirements. The person you care for must also be receiving a qualifying disability benefit such as specific rates of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), or Attendance Allowance. Scottish residents should note that while eligibility is currently similar, they apply for Carer Support Payment through Social Security Scotland.
How to apply for Carer's Allowance UK
Applications for Carer's Allowance can be submitted online or by post.
Online application
The quickest way to apply is online via the official GOV.UK website. The process involves visiting the 'How to claim' section, starting the application (which may require logging into or creating a Government Gateway account), completing the online form with your details and those of the person you care for, and submitting any necessary supporting documents electronically. You can request an email confirmation of your submission.
Postal application
Alternatively, you can apply by post using form DS700, or form DS700(SP) if you are receiving a State Pension. These forms can be downloaded from the GOV.UK website or requested by calling the Carer's Allowance Unit. The completed form and supporting documents should be sent to the Carer's Allowance Unit at Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton, WV98 2AB.
Documents and information needed for your application
Before applying, gather essential information to streamline the process. You will need your National Insurance number, bank details, employment and income information (including payslips or P45 if applicable), and details of any work-related expenses. For the person you care for, you'll need their name, date of birth, address, and either their National Insurance number (if over 16) or their Disability Living Allowance reference number (if under 16).
Impact on other benefits and payments
Receiving Carer's Allowance can influence other benefits for both you and the person you care for. It is considered taxable income and can reduce means-tested benefits, although you might receive extra amounts like a 'Carer's Element' or 'Carer Premium'. If your State Pension exceeds the Carer's Allowance rate, you won't receive the allowance directly but may be given an 'underlying entitlement' that can help with other benefits. The person you care for may lose their Severe Disability Premium. If you are under State Pension age, you automatically receive National Insurance credits. It is advisable to seek expert advice if you are unsure how claiming will affect your overall benefit situation.
| Aspect | How it Affects Your Benefits | How it Affects the Person You Care For |
|---|---|---|
| Means-tested benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, Pension Credit) | Carer's Allowance is counted as income, which may reduce your payment. However, you could receive a 'Carer's Element' or 'Carer Premium'. | The person you care for may lose their Severe Disability Premium or equivalent benefit, which could mean a loss of income for the household. Seek advice before claiming. |
| State Pension | You cannot get the full amount of both Carer's Allowance and your State Pension. If your State Pension is higher, you receive an 'underlying entitlement' to Carer's Allowance, which can still help with other benefits. | Not directly affected, but their benefits may be impacted if they receive a severe disability addition. |
| National Insurance (NI) Credits | If you are under State Pension age, you automatically receive NI credits, which count towards your State Pension and other benefits. | Not applicable. |
| Tax Implications | Carer's Allowance is taxable. If you have other taxable income, you may need to pay Income Tax. | Not applicable. |
What to do after applying
After submitting your application, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will process it, which can take several weeks. You can request that your claim be backdated by up to three months if you met the eligibility criteria during that time. It is mandatory to report any changes in circumstances that could affect your eligibility, such as changes in income, employment, or caring responsibilities, to the Carer's Allowance Unit to avoid potential overpayments.
Conclusion
Applying for Carer's Allowance in the UK requires meeting specific eligibility criteria related to caring hours (at least 35 per week), age (16+), education, residency, and weekly earnings (£196 or less after deductions as of April 2025). The person being cared for must be receiving a qualifying disability benefit. You can apply online through GOV.UK or via postal form. Ensuring you have all necessary personal, financial, and caring details beforehand will help the application process. It is important to understand the potential impact on other benefits for both yourself and the person you care for and to report any changes in circumstances promptly to the Carer's Allowance Unit.
