Caring for someone else is a huge responsibility. But what if you’re also struggling with your own health or financial situation? One common question many people ask is: “Can I claim Carer’s Allowance for myself?” In this guide, we’ll explore this question in depth and offer a detailed breakdown of the eligibility, rules, and alternative benefits you may qualify for in the UK.
What Is Carer’s Allowance and Why Is It Important?
Understanding Carer’s Allowance in the UK
Carer’s Allowance is a benefit provided by the UK government to support individuals who spend a significant amount of time providing care to someone with a disability or health condition. It’s administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
Who It’s Designed For: Supporting Unpaid Carers
This benefit is aimed at unpaid carers, not professional or paid support workers. It’s particularly helpful for people who give up work or reduce their hours to provide care.
How It Helps: Financial and Practical Benefits
In addition to a weekly payment of £81.90 (as of 2025), carers may be entitled to:
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National Insurance credits
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Support with other benefits such as Universal Credit
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Access to carer-specific resources or local council assistance
Can I Claim Carer’s Allowance for Myself?
Understanding the Question: “Can You Be Both the Carer and the Cared-For?”
The short answer is no—you cannot claim Carer’s Allowance for yourself. The allowance is specifically designed to compensate you for caring for someone else, not for your own health or disability needs.
Carer’s Allowance Eligibility: Key Criteria by DWP
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following conditions:
Must Be Caring for Someone Else
You can only claim if you’re providing care for another person who receives a qualifying disability benefit, such as PIP or Attendance Allowance.
At Least 35 Hours of Care a Week
You must provide a minimum of 35 hours of care each week, including help with:
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Washing and dressing
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Meal preparation
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Medication management
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Attending appointments
Earnings Threshold and Benefit Overlaps
Your net earnings must be £151 or less per week (after tax and expenses). Also, you can’t receive Carer’s Allowance if it overlaps with another benefit like State Pension, though you may still gain underlying entitlement.
Who Can You Claim Carer’s Allowance For?
Conditions of the Person You Care For
They must have a disability or health condition that significantly affects their daily life.
Disability-Related Benefits They Must Receive
The person you care for must be receiving at least one of the following:
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – daily living component
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Attendance Allowance
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – middle or highest care rate
Can You Claim If You’re Living with the Person?
Yes, living with the person is not a requirement, but you do need to meet the 35-hour weekly care rule.
Can I Get Any Support If I’m Looking After Myself?
Exploring Other UK Benefits If You Have a Disability
If you’re managing your own illness or disability and are not a carer, you may qualify for other support.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
If you’re aged 16 or over and have a long-term health condition or disability, PIP can help with:
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Daily living costs
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Mobility issues
Universal Credit and Disability Premiums
You may receive additional disability elements in your Universal Credit if you’re:
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Unable to work
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Living with a physical or mental health condition
Support from Local Councils or Charities
Many councils offer non-means-tested grants or practical assistance, and charities like Carers UK and Scope provide tailored support. Check if you are wondering is Carer’s allowance means tested.
How Do You Apply for Carer’s Allowance in the UK?
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Check eligibility
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Gather documentation
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Apply online via Gov.uk or request a paper form
Documents You’ll Need
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National Insurance number
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Details of the person you care for
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Employment and income info
Online vs Phone Applications
The online application is faster, but if you have difficulty, you can call the Carer’s Allowance Unit at 0800 731 0297.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Decision?
On average, 6–8 weeks, though delays are possible if additional verification is needed.
Common Misconceptions About Carer’s Allowance
“Can I Claim Carer’s Allowance and Work?”
Yes, but only if your net earnings are £151 or less per week.
“Can Two People Claim for Caring for the Same Person?”
No, only one person can claim Carer’s Allowance for caring for one individual.
“Will It Affect My Other Benefits?”
Yes, it can. For example:
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Universal Credit may be adjusted
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State Pension overlaps with Carer’s Allowance
Helpful Comparison Table of Benefits
| Benefit Name | Who It’s For | Can Be Claimed with Carer’s Allowance? | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carer’s Allowance | Unpaid carers | No overlaps with similar earnings-based benefits | Must care for someone else 35+ hrs/week |
| PIP | People with long-term conditions | Yes | Assessment-based, not means-tested |
| Universal Credit | Low-income individuals | Yes (Carer Element) | Carer’s Element adds value to UC award |
| Attendance Allowance | People over 65 with care needs | No | Paid to the cared-for person |
What If You’re Both a Carer and Have a Disability?
Can You Be a Carer While Receiving PIP or DLA?
Yes, you can receive PIP or DLA and still claim Carer’s Allowance if you care for someone else.
How It Affects Your Carer’s Allowance Claim
Your own disability benefits don’t disqualify you, as long as:
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You’re providing the required 35 hours of care
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Your own care needs don’t prevent you from caring for someone else
DWP Assessment and Overlapping Benefit Rules
Be aware: Overlapping benefit rules may reduce how much you’re paid, particularly if you’re receiving Income Support or Pension Credit.
What Other Support Is Available for Carers in the UK?
Carer’s Credit for National Insurance
If you don’t qualify for Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Credit can help you maintain your State Pension eligibility.
Carer’s Element in Universal Credit
This is an extra monthly amount added to your Universal Credit if you’re:
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Caring for someone for 35+ hours/week
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Not receiving Carer’s Allowance already
Council Tax Reductions and Local Authority Schemes
Many councils offer:
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Council Tax discounts
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Grants and community support
Carer Support Groups and Mental Health Services
Free mental health support and local peer groups are available through:
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Mind
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Carers UK
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Local NHS networks
Impact of Carer’s Allowance on Other Benefits
Does It Affect Income Support or Housing Benefit?
Yes, receiving Carer’s Allowance may reduce other income-based benefits.
Interaction with Pension Credit
Carer’s Allowance can give you underlying entitlement, which boosts Pension Credit even if no direct payment is made.
What Is the Overlapping Benefit Rule?
This rule prevents you from being paid two income-replacement benefits at the same time, e.g., State Pension + Carer’s Allowance.
When and Why Might Your Carer’s Allowance Be Stopped?
Changes in Caring Hours or the Condition of the Person You Care For
If you no longer provide 35 hours of care, you must notify DWP.
Starting a Job or Increase in Income
If your net earnings exceed £151/week, your allowance may be stopped or reduced.
Moving Abroad or Changes in Immigration Status
Carer’s Allowance usually requires UK residency, and changes may impact your claim.
How to Report Changes to the DWP
You can update your information through:
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Online reporting tools
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Carer’s Allowance Unit by phone
Final Thoughts: Getting the Right Support as a Carer
Being a carer is both emotionally rewarding and financially challenging. While you can’t claim Carer’s Allowance for yourself, there are many other forms of support available if you’re managing your own health conditions. Always check eligibility carefully and don’t hesitate to seek advice from professionals, benefits helplines, or charities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you claim Carer’s Allowance for looking after yourself?
No. You must be caring for another person who receives a qualifying benefit.
What happens if your caring hours drop below 35 per week?
You may lose entitlement and must report this change immediately.
Do carers receive National Insurance credits?
Yes. If you receive Carer’s Allowance, you automatically qualify for NI credits.
Can you backdate a claim?
Yes, up to 3 months if you meet all eligibility requirements during that time.
