The Carers Allowance is a vital support provided by the UK Government to individuals who care for someone with an illness or disability.
This allowance helps carers manage their responsibilities while ensuring they receive some financial assistance for their efforts.
Carers Allowance 2024 Eligibility
To qualify for the Carers Allowance, both the carer and the person receiving care must meet specific criteria.
Carer Requirements
- Age: Must be over 16 years old.
- Care Hours: Must provide care for at least 35 hours per week.
- Earnings: Weekly earnings must be £139 or less after tax, expenses, and National Insurance.
- Education: Cannot be in full-time education.
- Immigration Status: Should not be subject to immigration control.
Income Considerations
Earnings are defined as income from employment or self-employment after deductions for tax, National Insurance, and expenses. Certain payments do not count as earnings, such as:
- Loans or advanced payments from employers.
- Money from occupational or private pensions.
Person Receiving Care
The person receiving care must be receiving one of the following benefits:
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Attendance Allowance
- Personal Independence Payment
- Child Disability Payment
- Adult Disability Payment
- Disability Living Allowance
- Constant Attendance Allowance
Some of these benefits have additional requirements, such as receiving the middle or highest care rate from Child Disability Payment. Only one carer can claim Carers Allowance for the same person, even if multiple people provide care.
Care Details
Care activities can include:
- Taking the person to medical appointments.
- Assisting with cooking and washing.
- Managing household tasks such as shopping and paying bills.
Rate
The weekly Carers Allowance rate for 2024 is £76.75. However, the allowance interacts with other benefits:
Pension Interaction
- State Pension: If the state pension exceeds £76.75 per week, carers cannot receive Carers Allowance. If the pension is less, the allowance will top up to £76.75.
- Pension Credit: Receiving Carers Allowance can increase pension credit payments.
Benefit Adjustments
Receiving Carers Allowance can affect other benefits. For example, the cared-for person might lose their severe disability premium or extra amounts with pension credit. However, total benefit payments will not decrease; they will either remain the same or increase.
Claim Process
Carers can apply for the allowance online or by post. Here’s what you need to apply:
Information and Documents Needed
- National Insurance number
- Employment details
- Bank details
- Latest payslip (if working)
- Course details (if studying)
- Expense details
Additionally, details about the person being cared for are required:
- Address
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number
- Disability Living Allowance reference
Application Methods
- Online: Fast and convenient through the UK Government website.
- Post: Request a form by calling the authorities.
Payment Continuity
Carers receive £76.75 per week, provided they meet eligibility criteria. If caring for more than one person, they cannot claim for each. In the event of the death of the cared-for person, the allowance continues for up to 8 weeks.
If the carer is hospitalized for a minimum of 8 weeks, the allowance continues for up to 12 weeks. Any change in circumstances should be promptly reported to the authorities to avoid disruptions.
Carers play a crucial role in supporting those with disabilities and illnesses. The Carers Allowance is a small but essential acknowledgment of their dedication and hard work.
FAQs
How much is Carers Allowance in 2024?
£76.75 per week.
Can I get Carers Allowance if I work?
Yes, if earnings are £139 or less per week after deductions.
Can multiple carers claim for one person?
No, only one carer can claim for each person.
How to apply for Carers Allowance?
Online or by post with necessary documents.
Does Carers Allowance affect other benefits?
Yes, it can affect benefits like severe disability premium and pension credit.
