Claim £327 Every 4 Weeks: If you’re caring for someone with a disability or health condition for at least 35 hours a week, you could now claim £327 every four weeks under the UK’s newly updated Carer’s Allowance scheme. This vital benefit, administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), helps unpaid carers receive financial support while continuing their essential caregiving responsibilities.
As of April 2025, the weekly payment for Carer’s Allowance increased to £83.30, giving a monthly equivalent of around £333. Whether you’re caring for a parent, partner, child, friend, or neighbor, understanding the latest updates, eligibility rules, and application process can ensure you don’t miss out on this crucial benefit.
Claim £327 Every 4 Weeks
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weekly Payment | £83.30 |
| Monthly Equivalent | Approximately £333 every four weeks |
| Minimum Care Requirement | 35 hours per week |
| Earnings Limit | £196 per week (after tax, National Insurance, and expenses) |
| Eligible Age | 16 years and over |
| Full-Time Education Limit | Must not study more than 21 hours/week |
| Applies To | England, Scotland, Wales |
| Official Site | gov.uk/carers-allowance |
The Carer’s Allowance scheme in 2025 offers vital financial support to thousands of unpaid carers across the UK. With payments of £83.30 per week (or £327 every 4 weeks), it can significantly ease the pressure of caring for a loved one. But with strict eligibility rules and income thresholds, it’s important to understand your rights, responsibilities, and how your claim might impact other benefits.
If you or someone you know spends a large amount of time caring for another person, now is the time to check if you qualify — and get the support you rightly deserve.
What Is Carer’s Allowance?
Carer’s Allowance is a benefit offered to people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone with substantial care needs. The support helps carers manage financially while providing necessary, unpaid assistance for tasks like bathing, cooking, administering medication, and offering emotional or physical support.
The person you care for must receive one of the following qualifying benefits:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – daily living component
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – middle or highest care rate
- Attendance Allowance
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance (paid with Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit or War Pension)
You do not need to be related to or live with the person you care for to qualify.
Who Is Eligible for Carer’s Allowance in 2025?
To qualify, you must meet all of the following conditions:
You:
- Are aged 16 or over
- Spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone
- Live in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Earn £196 or less per week after deductions
- Are not in full-time education (over 21 hours/week)
- Have settled or pre-settled status if you’re an EU citizen
The Person You Care For Must:
- Be receiving a qualifying disability benefit (like PIP or DLA)
It’s also important to note that you cannot receive two overlapping benefits for the same period, like Carer’s Allowance and certain earnings-related benefits. However, you might still be eligible for a Carer Premium or Carer Element within other means-tested benefits like Universal Credit.
How the £196 Weekly Earnings Limit Works
Carer’s Allowance is means-tested based on earnings. The threshold is £196 per week after deductions, such as:
- Income Tax
- National Insurance contributions
- Pension contributions (50%)
- Work-related expenses, such as travel or equipment
If you exceed the limit, even by a small amount, your payment can be suspended or overpaid, requiring repayment.
Always report changes in income to avoid benefit overpayments or sanctions.
How to Apply for Carer’s Allowance
Applying for Carer’s Allowance is free and easy. You can apply either online or by post.
Online Application:
- Visit: www.gov.uk/carers-allowance
- Use your Government Gateway account or create one
Postal Application:
- Download the form: Carer’s Allowance DS700 Form
- Send it to the address on the form
What You’ll Need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Details of the person you care for (DOB and benefit type)
- Your work and income information
- Your bank details for payments
Applications are usually processed within 3 to 6 weeks, and payments can be backdated up to 3 months if you were eligible earlier.
How Does Carer’s Allowance Affect Other Benefits?
Receiving Carer’s Allowance can impact your own and the cared-for person’s benefits:
May Reduce:
- Means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, or Pension Credit
May Increase:
- Carer Premium/Carer Addition: Up to £42.75/week added to certain benefits
- Council Tax Reduction: Some councils offer discounts for carers
Always use a benefits calculator or speak with a welfare adviser before applying.
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Additional Help for Carers
If you don’t qualify for Carer’s Allowance, you might still be eligible for Carer’s Credit. This is a National Insurance credit that helps maintain your State Pension record.
To qualify for Carer’s Credit:
- Provide care for 20+ hours/week
- The person you care for must receive a qualifying benefit
Also explore local government services, such as:
- Free training programs for carers
- Respite care services
- Carer’s assessments under the Care Act 2014
Many charities also offer additional resources:
- Carers UK
- Age UK
- Citizens Advice
FAQs On Claim £327 Every 4 Weeks
Q1: Can I claim Carer’s Allowance if I receive State Pension?
A: You cannot receive both in full, but if your State Pension is lower than the Carer’s Allowance rate, you may get the difference as an underlying entitlement which can help you qualify for other benefits.
Q2: Do I need the person’s permission to claim?
A: No formal consent is needed, but their details and benefit status are required.
Q3: Is Carer’s Allowance taxable?
A: Yes, it counts as taxable income and could affect your tax code if you earn above the Personal Allowance.
Q4: Can I claim if I share care duties with someone else?
A: Only one person can claim Carer’s Allowance for each person being cared for.
Q5: Will my benefits stop if my cared-for person passes away?
A: Carer’s Allowance usually continues for 8 weeks after the death of the person you were caring for.
