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Carer's Allowance

Carer's Allowance (CA) is a non-contributory, means-tested, taxable benefit for carers of sick or disabled people.

The Department for Work and Pensions administers this benefit via the Disability and Carers Service.

Eligibility

To be eligible for CA, a claimant must:

  • regularly spend at least 35 hours per week caring for another person who receives either:
  • be aged 16 or older;
  • pass the UK Residence and Presence Test;
  • not be in full time education (21 hours +);
  • not earn above £100 per week.

Effects on other benefits

  • If CA is paid, a Carer Premium will be included within other means-tested benefits i.e. Income Support, Pension Credit, Employment and Support Allowance (income based), Housing Benefit, Council Tax Benefit and Local Housing Allowance.
  • It cannot be paid as well as some other overlapping benefits such as Retirement Pension, Incapacity Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance (contribution based). However, an underlying entitlement can be claimed, so that the Carer Premium can continue to be paid as above.
  • If a person is paid CA, then the person they are caring for cannot get the Severe Disability Premium included in their own means-tested benefit. Seek expert advice.

How to claim

Claim on form DS700 by phoning 0800 882200.

Carer's Allowance leaflet

Download the Carer's Allowance leaflet (pdf 61KB).

To use this file you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have it on your computer, please use the advice page.

 

For more information contact us by telephone: 01634 306000 or by email: welfare.benefits@medway.gov.uk

Write to: Medway Council, Gun Wharf, Dock Road, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TR

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