Carer's Allowance

Carer's Allowance is the main benefit for unpaid carers. You can claim it if you care for someone for at least 35 hours per week and they receive a qualifying disability benefit (such as Personal Independence Payment, Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance at the middle or higher rate).

Carer's Allowance is currently £81.90 per week (subject to annual review). Receiving it may affect other benefits — for example, if you receive Universal Credit, you may receive a Carer Element added to your UC payment instead.

Carer's Credit

If you cannot qualify for Carer's Allowance (for example because you earn over the earnings threshold) but you care for someone for at least 20 hours per week, you may qualify for Carer's Credit.

Carer's Credit fills gaps in your National Insurance record, which protects your State Pension entitlement. This is particularly important for carers who have reduced or stopped working to care.

Universal Credit carer element

If you receive Universal Credit and meet the caring criteria, a Carer Element of around £185 per month is added to your payment. This is separate from Carer's Allowance.

You do not need to be receiving Carer's Allowance to get the UC Carer Element — but you do need to meet the caring criteria.

Local and additional support

Carers UK and the Carers Trust can help you identify entitlements specific to your situation. Local carer support services may be available through your council or local carers centre.

If you are a carer with health needs of your own, Personal Independence Payment may also be relevant.