Carer support

Carer’s Allowance

Summary

Benefit for people who spend significant time caring for someone with substantial care needs.

Carers providing qualifying care hours for a person on a qualifying disability benefit may qualify subject to earnings/study rules.

People not meeting care-hours, earnings, or study limits may not qualify.

Carer’s Allowance is a weekly payment subject to earnings and eligibility conditions.

Means test	Not a full means-tested benefit, but earnings limit applies.
Care requirement	Usually at least 35 hours care per week.
Qualifying benefit	Person cared for must receive a qualifying disability benefit.
Study	Full-time study restrictions apply.

Payment timing varies by benefit. Check the official source for the current payment schedule.

Apply via GOV.UK; NI route available on NI Direct.

Applying through an unofficial channel instead of GOV.UK, NI Direct, or the relevant local authority service.
Submitting incomplete identity, income, or household evidence.
Not reporting changes in income, work, address, caring, or household circumstances promptly.

Possibly, if earnings stay within the official limit.

Savings alone are not the main test; earnings and caring conditions are key.

In Scotland, Carer Support Payment is replacing Carer’s Allowance for many new claims.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-05

General guidance only. Check official rules before applying.