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Welfare Benefits

As a carer, you may be able to get financial support. This includes Carer’s Allowance and other benefits. There’s also help for people who live with a disability or are on a low income. What you can claim depends on your personal situation.

Benefits for working-age carers

  • Carers Allowance - A weekly payment if you care for someone for 35 hours or more a week and earn under £196 a week (after tax).
  • Carer’s Credit - A National Insurance credit that helps protect your State Pension if you care for someone for 20 hours or more a week and are under pension age.
  • Carer Element of Universal Credit - If you’re on Universal Credit and care for someone for 35 hours or more a week, you may get extra money added to your monthly payment.

Benefits for carers over State Pension age

  • Pension Credit - Extra money to help with everyday living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income. You may get more support if you’re a carer, live with a disability, or look after a child or young person.
  • Carers Allowance - If your State Pension is less than the Carer’s Allowance amount, you may be able to get the difference topped up. If your State Pension is higher, you won’t be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.

Benefits for the person you care for

  • Attendance Allowance - For people who need help looking after themselves due to a disability or health condition. It helps with extra costs related to their support needs.
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP) - Extra money for people with long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities. It’s based on how their condition affects daily life.
  • Disability Living Allowance (DLA) - A tax-free benefit for people who need help with mobility or personal care. It’s gradually being replaced by PIP for those aged 16 and over.

Where to find out more about welfare benefits

  • MoneyHelper - A free, government-backed service offering clear, impartial advice on money and pensions. It includes a benefit calculator to help you find out what you could be entitled to.
  • GOV.UK - Brings together all the key information in one place, making it easier to understand what help is available and how to apply.
  • Local support - find out about local organisations offering support on the BCP Adult Social Care Directory
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