Beginner’s Guide to Carer’s Allowance & Financial Support for 2025-26
March 27th, 2025
If you look after someone who needs help because of illness or disability, you might be able to get Carer’s Allowance or other financial help. From 7th April 2025 the government has increased the amount of money someone can earn and still claim Carers Allowance. Caring for someone can be hard work, and it’s important to know what support is available.
What is Carer’s Allowance?
Carer’s Allowance is £83.30 per week (as of 7th April 2025) to help people who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone. You don’t have to be related to them or live with them.
Who Can Get Carer’s Allowance?
You might be able to get Carer’s Allowance if:
- You care for someone for 35+ hours a week.
- The person you care for gets certain disability benefits (like Personal Independence Payment or Attendance Allowance).
- You earn £196 a week or less after tax (as of 7th April 2025).
- You’re not in full-time education.
Even if you can’t get Carer’s Allowance, you might still be able to get extra support.
How Do I Apply?
You can apply online at www.gov.uk/carers-allowance or call the Carer’s Allowance Unit on 0800 731 0297. You’ll need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Details of the person you care for
- Information about your income
Other Financial Help for Carers
If you don’t qualify for Carer’s Allowance, you might still be able to get:
Carer’s Credit
This helps protect your National Insurance record so you don’t lose out on a State Pension later. It’s for people who care for someone for 20+ hours a week but don’t qualify for Carer’s Allowance.
Council Tax Reduction
Some carers can get a discount on their council tax bill. Contact your local council to check if you qualify.
Universal Credit or Pension Credit
If you get Universal Credit or Pension Credit, you might get extra money because you are a carer.
One-off Grants
Some charities offer grants for carers to help with costs like food, bills, or breaks from caring. Check with organisations like Turn2Us or Carers UK.
We Care Together
You don’t have to figure this out alone! We can give you free advice to check what help you can get.
Call 020 7790 1765
Email enquiries@ccth.org.uk
Or pop in to see us at 21 Brayford Square, London, E1 0SG
Caring for someone is an important job, and you deserve support too.
