Carers Allowance (CA)

CA is the main state benefit for people who spend a minimum of 35 hours a week caring for a person who receives Disability Living Allowance (the care component, at the middle or higher rate), Attendance Allowance or Constant Attendance Allowance. It is not means tested, but it is treated as taxable income. Carers can be in employment or self-employment and receive CA. Those who earn over a certain amount will lose their entitlement to CA.

You can claim CA when receiving other benefits not mentioned so far, however you may not receive this additional money due to the overlapping benefit rule. If this is the case, you may be entitled to Carer Premium.

If the person you are caring for is about to apply for Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance or Constant Attendance Allowance, seek advice about claiming CA at the same time.

Your CA can affect the benefits of the person you are caring for. Before making a claim, it is helpful to seek guidance from an independent advice service. See the suggested contacts below.

Carer Premium

This is not a benefit, but an extra allowance included in the calculation of means-tested benefits. In order to receive this premium, you must be awarded CA or be entitled to receive CA.

Suggested contacts

Welfare Rights Unit                                                  0800 169 6625
Citizens Advice Bureau                                             01745 814336
Disability Resources Centre                                       01745 534525
Benefits Advice Shop                                                 01745 345145
Direct Payments (The Rowan Organisation)                 0800 7831755
Benefits Enquiry Line (Government Department)            0800 882200
Department for Work and Pensions (Job Centre)           01745 352400
Department for Work and Pensions (Customer Service) 01772 238128