Carer's Allowance Explained

Carer's Allowance is £86.45 a week for people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with substantial care needs.

It isn't means-tested, so your savings don't come into it, but there is an earnings limit: you can earn up to £204 a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses and still claim.

Two things catch people out. It's taxable, and it can affect other benefits you or the person you care for already receive — sometimes reducing them. It's worth checking the whole picture before you claim rather than after.

Who is eligible?

You need to be 16 or over and caring for someone for at least 35 hours a week. Those hours can include things like helping with appointments and paperwork, not just hands-on care.

The person you care for has to be receiving a qualifying disability benefit, such as Personal Independence Payment, Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance.

You don't have to be related to them or live with them. What matters is the hours and their qualifying benefit.

What benefits does this provide?

  • Financial Support: Carer's Allowance pays £86.45 a week to people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with substantial care needs.
  • National Insurance Credits: By receiving Carer's Allowance, caregivers may qualify for National Insurance credits, which can contribute towards their State Pension.
  • Additional Benefits: Claiming Carer's Allowance can also lead to eligibility for other benefits, such as Income Support, Universal Credit, or Pension Credit, depending on individual circumstances.
  • Carer Premium: Those receiving Carer's Allowance may also be entitled to a Carer Premium, which is an additional amount added to certain benefits like Income Support or Housing Benefit.
  • Support and resources: Claiming opens the door to carers' support services, respite options and local carer groups.

How do I apply?

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria, such as caring for someone for at least 35 hours a week and earning £204 or less a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses.
  • Gather Necessary Information: Collect details like your National Insurance number, bank or building society details, employment details, and the date of birth and address of the person you care for.
  • Apply Online: Visit the official UK government website to complete the Carer's Allowance application form online.
  • Apply by Post: If preferred, download the application form from the government website, fill it out, and send it to the address provided on the form.
  • Await Decision: After submission, wait for a decision. You may be contacted for additional information.
  • Appeal if Necessary: If your application is denied, you can request a mandatory reconsideration and appeal the decision if needed.

Common questions

How much is Carer's Allowance a week?

£86.45 a week.

How many hours a week do you have to care for to get Carer's Allowance?

At least 35 hours a week, caring for someone who receives certain qualifying benefits.

How much can you earn and still get Carer's Allowance?

Up to £204 a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses. Earn more than that in a week and you lose the payment for that week.

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Last reviewed 26 August 2026 by Brittany Belt, Co-founder and COO