Leukaemia CARE - Carers Allowance

What is it?

Carers allowance is the main benefit for carers. It is for people over 16 who are looking after someone who has an illness or a disability.

Who is entitled?

You must care for someone at least 35 hours per week
The person you care for must be receiving Disability Living Allowance at the
middle or highest rate of the care component or Attendance Allowance
You don’t need to be related to or be living with the person you care for
There is a weekly earnings limit to be entitled for Carers allowance
You must not be in full time education
You must meet UK presence and residence conditions

What else do I need to know?

    If you are receiving other benefits such as State Pension, Incapacity Benefit and
    Contribution–based Jobseekers Allowance, you may not be eligible for Carers
    Allowance.
    Claiming Carer's Allowance may also affect the benefits claimed by the person
    you care for. It is a good idea to speak to a benefits adviser who will be able to
    recommend the best course of action for you and the person you care for.

What is it?

This is an extra amount of money that may be paid to a carer, or their partner, who is getting Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit or rate rebate.

Who is entitled?

The Carer Premium is only paid to carers entitled to Income Support and who are paid Carer’s Allowance, or are entitled to Carer’s Allowance but cannot be paid because they get paid another benefit such as Incapacity Benefit at the same or higher rate as Carer’s Allowance.

Contact Leukaemia CARE for more information on Carers Allowance/Premium or any other benefits on our freephone CARE Line on 0800 169 6680.