Question 16 of 30
What financial help is available for carers in the UK?
There is financial support available if you are caring for someone, but what you can claim depends on your situation. The main benefit is Carer's Allowance, which is paid if you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week and meet earnings limits. Some carers may also qualify for Universal Credit, Carer's Credit which protects your National Insurance record, or local council support. It is worth checking whether the person you care for is receiving the right benefits, as this can affect what you are entitled to. Many carers miss out because they assume they will not qualify.
It is usually worth doing a quick benefits check before assuming you are not eligible — entitlements link together in ways that are not always obvious.
What changes the answer
- How many hours you provide care each week
- Your income and employment status
- Whether the person you care for receives qualifying benefits