Carers allowance

The main benefit for carers is the Carer's Allowance, currently worth £58.45 a week. It’s not means-tested or based on national insurance contributions but there are certain criteria you must meet in order to be eligible.

In order to qualify for Carer’s Allowance, you must:

• be aged 16 or over (there is no upper age limit) and caring for a disabled person for 35 hours a week or more
• not earn more than £100 per week (less certain deductions) or be in full-time education
• satisfy UK residence and immigration rules.

The person you care for must:

• be getting either an Attendance Allowance or the middle or higher rate care component of a Disability Living Allowance.

Attendance Allowance is a weekly cash payment for disabled people who are aged 65 and over, whileDisability Living Allowance is for disabled people under 65.The person you look after may also be entitled to earnings replacement benefits.

For more information on the Carer's Allowance and other benefits for carers,or for those you look after,contact your local carers support group (link to page) Citizen's Advice Bureau, oronline at www.gov.uk(replaces www.directgov.uk)