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Caring for a loved one can be very rewarding, but financially, it is challenging. Many family carers are working, maintaining domestic duties, and the additional costs of caring. The good news? There is financial assistance that can help to alleviate the burden.
If you are a carer in the UK, then you may be able to claim benefits, grants, and other financial assistance. Being aware of what is available can make a significant difference to your finances. In this guide, we'll discuss the main sources of assistance and how you can claim them.
One of the most significant benefits available to carers is Carer's Allowance. It is a weekly allowance for people who look after someone who needs constant care for 35 hours or more per week.
You must:
Carer's Allowance is paid at £81.90 per week (2024). It's not a great deal, but it may make a difference. Taking it, however, can affect other benefits, so it's better to be certain. You may claim online through the GOV.UK website.
If you're not eligible for Carer's Allowance but provide regular care, Carer's Credit can come in handy. This is not a cash payment, but it counts towards your National Insurance record, so you don't lose your State Pension later.
Since Carer’s Credit doesn’t involve payments, it’s often overlooked—but it’s vital for long-term financial security.
You can apply for Carer’s Credit via the GOV.UK website or request a paper form.
If you’re caring for someone aged 66 or over who has significant care needs, they might be eligible for Attendance Allowance. This is a benefit that helps cover extra costs due to disability or long-term illness.
It's a non-means-tested benefit, which means that it's provided on the basis of need, not income. If your relative is eligible, they can spend the money however they wish—whether that means paying for an extra carer or paying the household bills.
More details are available on the GOV.UK website.
If the person you care for is under 66 and has a disability or long-term condition, they might be eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
PIP has two components:
The amount you receive depends on how much help they need, not the condition itself. The maximum weekly payment is £184.30.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is for those under 16, instead of PIP.
Both can increase the financial assistance you receive as a carer, so it's worth checking if your relative qualifies.
More information on pip can be found here.
If you're low-paid, Universal Credit can top you up. If you're a carer, you can also receive the Carer Element, which adds to your monthly Universal Credit payment.
The Carer Element adds another £198.31 a month to your Universal Credit payment (2024 prices). You can receive the Carer Element if you work, provided your total income stays within Universal Credit limits.
To apply, visit Universal Credit on GOV.UK.
Many carers are unaware that they may qualify for a council tax discount. Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to:
All councils vary, so check the website of your local authority to see what you can claim in your area.
In addition to government benefits, there are numerous various charities and organisations that offer single grants to help carers with items such as costs, respite from caring, or home adaptations. Some of the better-known organisations include:
These grants are non-repayable, so are a valuable source of financial support.
It can be difficult to work and have caring responsibilities. If you work, you have legal rights that may help:
Discuss with your employer what support is available to you—you might qualify for more than you realize.
Caring for a relative is a huge responsibility, and money worries should not make things harder. Whatever it is—the Carer's Allowance, Universal Credit, or charity grants—there is support available that can make a difference.
If you’re unsure about what you’re entitled to, organisations like Citizens Advice and Carers UK can provide guidance tailored to your situation. Don’t hesitate to reach out—support is there for you.
For more information on financial support for carers, visit Carers UK.
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