Who is Eligible For Carers Allowance 2024: Know About Claim Process & More

Carer’s Allowance is a financial support provided by the UK government to individuals who spend a significant amount of time caring for someone with an illness or disability.

For 2024, understanding the eligibility criteria, payment rates, and application process is essential for those who provide care and rely on this benefit. Let’s break down everything you need to know about Carer’s Allowance in 2024.

Carers Allowance 2024 Eligibility

To qualify for Carer’s Allowance in 2024, both the caregiver and the person receiving care must meet specific criteria set by the government.

Carer’s Eligibility:

• Age: You must be 16 years or older.
• Care Hours: You need to provide care for at least 35 hours per week.
• Earnings: Your earnings must be £139 or less per week after taxes, National Insurance, and expenses.
• Education: You cannot be in full-time education.
• Immigration Control: You must not be subject to immigration control.

Care Recipient’s Eligibility:

The person you care for must be receiving one of the following benefits:

• Armed Forces Independence Payment
• Attendance Allowance
• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
• Child Disability Payment
• Adult Disability Payment
• Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
• Constant Attendance Allowance

Note that the care recipient must meet specific conditions related to the above benefits, such as receiving a middle or highest rate care component in the case of DLA.

Payment Rate

For 2024, the weekly Carer’s Allowance is set at £76.75. However, your eligibility for this full amount may be impacted if you are also receiving a state pension or other benefits.

Pension Interaction:

• If your state pension exceeds £76.75 per week, you won’t receive Carer’s Allowance.
• If your pension is less than £76.75 per week, Carer’s Allowance will cover the difference to ensure you receive a minimum of £76.75 weekly.
• If your pension surpasses this amount, your pension credit payments may increase instead of receiving Carer’s Allowance.

Additionally, receiving Carer’s Allowance may affect other benefits, potentially reducing or stopping payments like the severe disability premium or additional amounts in pension credit. However, your total benefit payments typically won’t decrease.

How to Claim

You can apply for Carer’s Allowance online or by post. Here’s a quick guide to the application process:

Online Application:

1. Visit the Official Website: Start by visiting the UK government’s official site for Carer’s Allowance.
2. Fill in the Required Information: Ensure you have all necessary details ready, such as your National Insurance number, employment and bank details, and information about the person you care for.
3. Submit: Once all information is filled out, submit your application online.

Postal Application:

If you prefer to apply by post:

1. Request a Form: Call the authorities to request a form or download it from the government website.
2. Complete and Send: Fill out the form with accurate details and send it to the address provided.

Remember to keep all your details up to date and report any changes in your circumstances, such as changes in care hours, employment status, or if the person you care for passes away.

Reporting Changes

If your situation changes—whether due to a change in employment, a hospital stay, or the death of the person you care for—you must inform the authorities immediately.

This ensures your payments are adjusted correctly and prevents overpayments that you may need to repay later.

In summary, Carer’s Allowance is a vital support system for those who dedicate significant time to caring for others. By understanding the eligibility requirements, payment rates, and application process, you can ensure that you receive the support you’re entitled to in 2024.

FAQs