CARER SUPPORT

Carer's Allowance Eligibility Checker

Check if you qualify for the main benefit for people who care for someone at least 35 hours a week.

Check the boxes to see results

Note: If you earn over £151, you will lose 100% of your Carer's Allowance. There is no taper.

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Warning for the person you care for: If you claim Carer's Allowance, the person you care for might lose their "Severe Disability Premium" if they receive one. Always check with them before claiming.

How Carer's Allowance Works

Carer's Allowance is the primary benefit for people who look after someone with substantial caring needs. It is not means-tested (your savings don't matter), but it does have a strict "earnings limit."

The "Earnings Limit" Trap

The most common reason for losing Carer's Allowance is the earnings limit. For the 2024/25 tax year, this is £151 a week. Unlike Universal Credit, there is no gradual reduction; if you earn £151.01, you lose all £81.90 of your allowance. However, you can deduct certain expenses like pension contributions and some childcare costs when calculating your earnings.

Qualifying Benefits

The person you care for must be in receipt of one of the following:

  • PIP Daily Living Component (either rate)
  • Disability Living Allowance (middle or highest care rate)
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Constant Attendance Allowance
  • Armed Forces Independence Payment