Carer’s Allowance is a financial benefit from the UK government that provides much-needed support for those who care for individuals with significant needs.
It’s a lifeline for carers, helping them manage the financial pressures of their vital role.
In 2024, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has set aside £288.60 for each of two annual Carer’s Allowance Supplement payments, designed to further ease the financial burden on carers.
This article explains the details of Carer’s Allowance payments, eligibility, and what to expect in 2024.
DWP Carer Allowance Eligibility
To qualify for Carer’s Allowance, there are several requirements you must meet. These ensure that the benefit reaches those who genuinely need it.
Time Commitment
You must provide care for at least 35 hours a week. Whether you live with the person or provide care from a distance doesn’t affect your eligibility. However, it’s crucial that you reside in the UK.
Income Restrictions
To receive Carer’s Allowance, your earnings should not exceed £139 a week after tax, National Insurance, and allowable expenses.
Allowable expenses may include things like work-related travel and pension contributions. If you’re receiving a State Pension, your weekly amount must be below £81.90 to qualify.
Education and Age
You must be at least 16 years old to apply and cannot be in full-time education, defined as studying for 21 hours or more each week.
Residency
You must have lived in England, Scotland, or Wales for at least two of the past three years and should not be subject to immigration control.
Qualifying Criteria for the Cared Person
For you to receive Carer’s Allowance, the person you care for must receive one of the following benefits:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP): Daily living component
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA): Middle or highest care rate
- Attendance Allowance
- Constant Attendance Allowance (Industrial Injuries Disablement or War Disablement Pension)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Child or Adult Disability Payment
These benefits indicate that the person you’re caring for has significant care needs.
2024 Payment Schedule
The DWP has approved two Carer’s Allowance Supplement payments for 2024. These payments are designed to help carers with additional financial support beyond the regular weekly allowance.
The first payment of £288.60 was made in June 2024, and the second is scheduled for December 2024. To qualify for the December payment, you must be receiving Carer’s Allowance on 7 October 2024.
Shared Care Situations
In cases where multiple people share caregiving responsibilities for the same person, only one carer can claim Carer’s Allowance.
It’s recommended that you discuss with the other carer who will claim. If both apply, the DWP will decide.
Earnings and Allowable Expenses
Your earnings are crucial when calculating your eligibility. After tax, National Insurance, and allowable expenses, your weekly earnings must be below £139. Allowable expenses include:
| Expense Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Pension Contributions | 50% of your pension contributions are deductible. |
| Job-Related Equipment | Necessary work tools and uniforms are deductible. |
| Travel Between Workplaces | Costs not reimbursed by your employer. |
| Business Costs (Self-Employed) | Expenses like a computer used solely for business. |
| Care Costs | Payments for someone to care for the disabled person while you work, up to 50% of your earnings. |
These deductions can make a big difference when calculating whether you fall below the earnings threshold.
Non-Countable Earnings
Certain types of income don’t count towards your earnings limit. For example:
- Money from a private pension
- Contributions to household costs from someone living with you
- The first £20 and 50% of any other income from a boarder in your home
- Loans or advance payments from your employer
State Pension and Pension Credit
If you receive a State Pension, the rules around Carer’s Allowance change. You cannot receive both the full State Pension and Carer’s Allowance.
If your pension exceeds £81.90 a week, you won’t receive Carer’s Allowance. However, if it’s below this amount, the allowance will make up the difference. Alternatively, Pension Credit may increase if you are eligible but not receiving Carer’s Allowance.
Applying for Carer’s Allowance
You can apply for Carer’s Allowance either online through the government’s website or by post. For postal applications, the necessary forms can be downloaded or requested from the DWP’s Carer’s Allowance Unit. Make sure to have the following documents on hand:
- National Insurance number
- Bank account details
- Employment information (if applicable)
- Course information (if studying)
- Details of the person you care for, including their National Insurance number and date of birth
The process is straightforward but requires accuracy and completeness.
Carers play a critical role in supporting vulnerable individuals, and Carer’s Allowance is a key way the government recognizes this contribution.
The upcoming payments in December will offer vital financial relief, ensuring carers are supported in their daily efforts.
FAQs
How many hours do I need to care each week?
You must care for at least 35 hours weekly.
Can I claim Carer’s Allowance if I’m studying?
No, you cannot be in full-time education.
When is the next Carer’s Allowance Supplement in 2024?
The next payment is in December 2024.
Can two carers claim the allowance for one person?
No, only one carer can claim the allowance.
How much can I earn and still receive Carer’s Allowance?
You can earn up to £139 per week after expenses.
