This is a guide based on the GOV.UK eligibility rules, checked on 20 October 2026. It is not a decision: only the Department for Work and Pensions can decide a claim. Rates and the earnings limit usually change each April.
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1. Do you live in Scotland? In Scotland, Carer's Allowance has been replaced by Carer Support Payment.
2. Are you 16 or over? There is no upper age limit, but your State Pension may affect payment (see question 9).
3. Do you care for the person for at least 35 hours a week? This can include help with washing and cooking, taking them to appointments, and household tasks such as bills and shopping.
4. Does the person you care for already get one of these benefits? Personal Independence Payment (daily living component) Disability Living Allowance (middle or highest care rate) Attendance Allowance Pension Age Disability Payment Adult Disability Payment (daily living component) Child Disability Payment or Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance (middle or highest care rate) Constant Attendance Allowance at or above the normal maximum rate with Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit Constant Attendance Allowance at the basic (full day) rate with a War Disablement Pension Armed Forces Independence Payment If they have applied for one of these and are waiting for a decision, check the GOV.UK guidance on when to claim.
5. Are your earnings £204.00 a week or less, after tax, National Insurance and expenses? Pensions do not count as earnings. Some expenses can be deducted, including what you pay someone other than a close relative to care for the person while you work (up to half of your earnings).
6. Are you in full-time education, or studying for 21 hours a week or more? You cannot get Carer's Allowance while studying at this level.
7. Have you been in England, Scotland or Wales for at least 2 of the last 3 years, and do you normally live in England or Wales? Different rules apply to refugees, people with humanitarian protection, members of the armed forces and some people living in the EEA or Switzerland. You must not be subject to immigration control.
8. Does someone else already get Carer's Allowance, Carer Support Payment or the Universal Credit carer element for the same person? Only one person can get it for the same person, but you can still apply.
9. Do you get a State Pension of £86.45 a week or more? Carer's Allowance is currently £86.45 a week.
Your result Answer all the questions to see a result.
How to claim on GOV.UK · Full eligibility rules
Carer's Allowance can affect other benefits that you and the person you care for get. Check with an adviser, such as Carers UK or Citizens Advice, before you apply.
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