If you care for someone with an illness or disability, you might be eligible for Carers Allowance. This guide will explain how much you can get, who qualifies, and how to apply for this benefit in 2024.
What is Carers Allowance?
Carers Allowance is a benefit provided by the UK Government to people who take care of someone with a disability or illness. To qualify, you must provide care for at least 35 hours a week. You do not need to be a relative or live with the person you are caring for to receive this allowance.
Carers Allowance Eligibility 2024
For Carers
To be eligible for Carers Allowance, you must:
- Be over 16 years old.
- Care for at least 35 hours per week.
- Have earnings of £139 or less per week after taxes, expenses, and National Insurance.
- Not be in full-time education.
- Not be subject to immigration control.
Earnings do not include:
- Loans or advance payments from your employer.
- Money from an occupational or private pension.
For the Person Receiving Care
The person you are caring for 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
Each benefit may have additional requirements. It’s essential to check the full list of eligibility requirements on the UK Government’s website.
Shared Care Situations
If multiple people are caring for the same person, only one can claim Carers Allowance. The allowance cannot be claimed if another person is already receiving it or getting extra Universal Credit for caring for someone with a disability.
Carers Allowance Rate 2024
In 2024, the Carers Allowance is £76.75 per week. However, if you also receive a state pension, the amount you get from Carers Allowance may be affected:
- If your state pension is more than £76.75 per week, you will not receive Carers Allowance.
- If your state pension is less than £76.75 per week, you will get the difference as Carers Allowance.
Receiving Carers Allowance may affect other benefits you or the person you care for receive. For example, the person you care for might stop receiving the severe disability premium or extra severe disability premium if you get Carers Allowance.
How to Claim Carers Allowance
You can apply for Carers Allowance either online or by post. To apply by post, you need to request a form by calling the authorities.
Required Information and Documents
When applying, ensure you have the following:
- National Insurance number
- Employment details
- Bank details
- Latest payslip (if working)
- Course details (if studying)
- Expense details
You also need to provide details about the person you are caring for:
- Address
- Date of Birth
- National Insurance Number
- Disability Living Allowance reference
Special Situations
- Death of the Person Cared For: You will continue to receive Carers Allowance for up to 8 weeks.
- Hospitalization: If you are in the hospital for at least 8 weeks, you will receive the allowance for up to 12 weeks.
Make sure to report any changes in your circumstances to the authorities promptly.
Carers Allowance is a vital benefit for those who provide significant care to individuals with disabilities or illnesses. By understanding the eligibility criteria, payment rates, and application process, you can ensure you receive the support you need. For detailed information and to apply, visit the UK Government’s official website.
1. What is Carers Allowance and who can apply for it?
Carers Allowance is a benefit for people who care for someone with a disability or illness for at least 35 hours a week.
2. How much is Carers Allowance in 2024?
In 2024, Carers Allowance is £76.75 per week. If you also receive a state pension and it exceeds £76.75 per week, you won’t receive Carers Allowance.
3. What are the eligibility requirements for Carers Allowance?
To be eligible, you must provide care for at least 35 hours a week, earn no more than £139 per week after tax, and not be in full-time education.
4. How do I apply for Carers Allowance?
You can apply for Carers Allowance online or by post. To apply by post, you need to get a form from the authorities.
5. What happens if the person I care for dies or if I am in the hospital?
If the person you care for dies, you will continue to receive Carers Allowance for up to 8 weeks. If you are in the hospital for at least 8 weeks, you can receive the allowance for up to 12 weeks.
