How Much is Carers Allowance 2024

Caring for someone full-time is a massive commitment, and while it’s often done out of love, the financial strain can be real. That’s where Carer’s Allowance comes in. In the UK, if you are a caretaker, you are undoubtedly wondering: How much is Carer’s Allowance in 2024? This post breaks it all down — rates, eligibility, how to claim, and more — using the latest information for UK carers in 2024.

Let’s explore everything you need to know.

What is Carer’s Allowance in the UK and how does it work?

Carer’s Allowance is a benefit paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to people who spend a significant amount of time caring for someone with a disability or long-term illness. It’s designed to help ease the financial burden for unpaid carers.

Who can claim Carer’s Allowance in the UK?

In order to be eligible for 2024 Carer’s Allowance, you need to:

• Be aged 16 or over

• At least 35 hours of care should be given each week.

• Care for someone who receives a qualifying benefit like:

  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

  • Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

  • Attendance Allowance

• After taxes and expenditures, make no more than £151 a week.

You must also not be subject to immigration control, and you’ll need a National Insurance number.

👉 Note: Studying full-time (21+ hours/week) can disqualify you.

What counts as ‘care’ for Carer’s Allowance?

The person you care about doesn’t have to live with you. Among the qualifying care activities are:

• Helping with personal hygiene and dressing

• Managing medication

• Cooking meals or feeding

• Helping with mobility or transport

• Handling bills or medical appointments

How much is Carer’s Allowance in 2024?

The weekly rate for Carer’s Allowance as of April 2024 is:

That’s £4.90 more than the 2023 rate of £77.00 — an increase of 6.36%, in line with inflation adjustments by the government.

“This increase acknowledges the vital role unpaid carers play in the UK’s care system,” – DWP spokesperson, April 2024

Is Carer’s Allowance paid weekly or monthly?

 Every 4 weeks, Carer’s Allowance is sent straight into your bank account. That’s approximately £327.60 every 4 weeks, depending on your eligibility.

What are the rules around income for Carer’s Allowance in 2024?

How much can you earn and still get Carer’s Allowance?

In 2024, your net earnings must be £151 or less per week after deductions like:

• Income tax

• National Insurance

• Half of pension contributions

• Care-related expenses (e.g., for a replacement carer while you work)

What if your earnings go over £151/week?

If your weekly earnings go over £151, even by £1, you lose the whole Carer’s Allowance for that week. There’s no partial payment — it’s all or nothing.

✅ Tip: Keep a close eye on your payslips if your income fluctuates.

Can you get other benefits while claiming Carer’s Allowance?

Yes, but it can affect what you receive.

What benefits can you receive alongside Carer’s Allowance?

• Universal Credit – Although the carer’s allowance (£185.86/month) is considered income, you may also get it.

• State Pension – You may get a Carer’s Addition, but you cannot collect both your State Pension and your Carer’s Allowance simultaneously.

• Housing Benefit & Council Tax Reduction – You may still be eligible, but amounts may vary

How do you apply for Carer’s Allowance in 2024?

Applying is free and takes around 30–45 minutes.

Where do you apply?

You can apply:

• Online via the GOV.UK website

• By Post (you can phone the Carer’s Allowance Unit to get a form).

What information will you need?

• National Insurance number

• Details of earnings and employment

• The cared-for person’s benefit details (including their NI number and DOB)

• Course details (if studying)

“Always check if you’re eligible before applying. Even if you’re not sure, it’s worth applying or speaking to a welfare advisor.” — Carers UK

What happens if you stop being a carer?

If your caring role ends — for example, the person you’re caring for no longer receives a qualifying benefit or you no longer meet the 35-hour requirement — you must notify the DWP immediately. Failure to do so may lead to overpayments, which you will need to repay.

Are there extra payments or benefits for carers in 2024?

Yes! Alongside Carer’s Allowance, carers may be entitled to:

What additional support is available?

• Carer Premium – An additional £42.75 per week on top of existing benefits (such as Pension Credit or Income Support)

• Carer Element of Universal Credit – £185.86 per month (plus Universal Credit)

• National Insurance Credits – Protects your right to a state pension.

What are the most common mistakes people make with Carer’s Allowance?

• Not reporting changes in earnings

• Assuming studying part-time is OK (over 21 hours/week disqualifies you)

• Not applying for additional support like Carer Premium

• Taking care of several persons but only filing a claim for one (you may only file a claim once)

What happens if you’re over pension age and caring for someone?

Many carers over State Pension age can’t receive Carer’s Allowance, but they can get:

• Carer Addition in Pension Credit

• National Insurance Credits (if under pension age previously)

• Council Tax Reduction

Always check with a welfare advisor — many older carers miss out because they assume they’re not entitled to anything.

Can self-employed carers claim Carer’s Allowance?

Yes — but the DWP will calculate your earnings based on your business profits after deducting:

• Tax

• NI contributions

• Eligible business expenses

Keep proper records and ensure your average weekly profit stays under £151.

Is there a fast-track claim process for terminal illness?

Yes. If the person you care for is terminally ill, their benefits are processed faster, and you may be able to claim sooner. Look for the Special Rules for End of Life (SREL) process — their GP or consultant will need to complete a form (DS1500).

Conclusion: How much is Carer’s Allowance 2024 and is it enough?

To recap, Carer’s Allowance in 2024 is £81.90 per week. While it’s a small amount, it recognises the invaluable role unpaid carers play in society. But it’s crucial to follow the regulations and comprehend how they affect additional advantages.

✅ Top Tip: Always check if you qualify for Carer Premium or Carer Element of Universal Credit – these add significant value.

Caring is tough — financially, emotionally, and physically. Carer’s Allowance won’t solve everything, but it’s a start. Make sure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to.

FAQs: Carer’s Allowance UK 2024

1. Can I claim Carer’s Allowance for myself?

No, Carer’s Allowance is intended for those who provide care to someone else. You can’t claim it for yourself, even if you have a disability or long-term health condition. Alternatively, you can qualify for additional benefits like Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

2. Can I claim Carer’s Allowance and work part-time?

Yes, you can work part-time and still claim Carer’s Allowance as long as your net earnings are £151/week or less. That means:

• After deductions like income tax, National Insurance, and half of your pension contributions

• Plus, you can deduct costs for alternative care while you’re working

You will forfeit your full week’s worth of Carer’s Allowance if you exceed the limit by even £1.

3. Can I check my Carer’s Allowance online?

Yes. Your online Carer’s Allowance account can be used for:

• View payment dates and history

• Report changes to your earnings or caring situation

• Update your bank details

👉 Visit: https://www.gov.uk/sign-in-carers-allowance

4. Is Carer’s Allowance means-tested?

Carer’s Allowance means-tested? No, Carer’s Allowance is not means-tested, which means:

• Eligibility is not impacted by your savings or your partner’s salary.

• However, your own earnings do matter — stay below the £151 per week limit

So even if your household has high income or savings, you could still be eligible if you meet all other criteria.

5. How much is Carer’s Allowance 2025?

The 2025 rate hasn’t yet been confirmed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), but we expect a potential rise in line with inflation trends. Based on past increases, it could reach around £85–£86 per week. Stay updated on GOV.UK or check back here early next year.

6. What is the Carer’s Allowance earnings limit 2024/25?

The weekly (net) Carer’s Allowance earnings cap for the 2024–2025 tax year is £151. This includes:

• Deductions for income tax and National Insurance

• Half of any pension contributions

• Approved care-related expenses (like hiring a substitute carer while you work)

⚠️ Even exceeding the limit by £1 in any week means no Carer’s Allowance will be paid for that week.

7. Can you claim Carer’s Allowance and Universal Credit?

Yes, you can claim both. However:

• Carer’s Allowance is counted as income in Universal Credit

• Additionally, you can qualify for Universal Credit’s Carer Element, which is worth £185.86 per month (2024 rate).