Money & Benefits for Unpaid Carers in the UK

Financial support, eligibility guidance and how to apply.

Being an unpaid carer can be emotionally rewarding but financially challenging. The UK offers a range of benefits and schemes to help carers manage the financial impact of caring.

Who Is an Unpaid Carer?

An unpaid carer provides regular support to a friend, family member, partner, parent or neighbour due to illness, disability, frailty, mental health needs or substance misuse — without being paid.

You do not need to live with the person to be recognised as a carer.

Main Benefits & Financial Support

1. Carer’s Allowance

A benefit for people whose caring responsibilities affect their ability to work.

Basic eligibility:

• Aged 16 or over

• Caring at least 35 hours per week

• The person cared for receives a qualifying disability benefit

• Earnings below the weekly threshold

• Living in Great Britain (rules vary in Northern Ireland)

Carer’s Allowance may affect other benefits, so advice is recommended.

2. Carer Premiums & Additional Amounts

If you receive means-tested benefits (such as Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit or Housing Benefit), you may qualify for an additional carer amount.

3. Carer’s Credit

A National Insurance credit to protect your State Pension if caring reduces your ability to work.

Generally for carers who:

• Provide at least 20 hours of care per week

• Are under State Pension age

• Are not working or earning below a set amount

4. Universal Credit (Carer Element)

Universal Credit may include an additional carer element if:

• You provide at least 35 hours of care per week

• You meet income and savings criteria

5. Disability Benefits for the Person You Care For

These are paid to the person you care for but may help you qualify for carer-specific benefits:

• Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

• Attendance Allowance

• Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children

• Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

6. Carer’s Assessment

Every local authority must offer a Carer’s Assessment. This looks at your needs, including financial pressures, respite, training and support services.

You can request this through your local council.

7. Carer Grants & One-Off Payments

Some organisations offer:

• Crisis payments

• Carer grants or vouchers

• Funding for training or respite

• Charity support schemes

Availability varies by region.

8. Council Tax Reductions & Local Support

Some councils offer council tax reductions where carers or disabled residents meet eligibility criteria. Check your local authority website.

How to Apply

Step 1 – Check Eligibility

Identify relevant benefits and gather required documents (National Insurance number, ID, proof of caring hours).

Step 2 – Apply

Submit applications online or by phone through the relevant government service.

Step 3 – Request a Carer’s Assessment

Contact your local authority.

Step 4 – Seek Advice

A trained adviser can help ensure you receive the correct support.

Where to Get Advice

• Carers UK

• Citizens Advice

• Local Carers Centres

• Your local council’s Adult Social Care Team

Practical Tips

• Apply promptly — some benefits may be backdated

• Keep records of caring hours and costs

• Review your benefits regularly

• Ask for help completing forms if needed