Taking on a caring responsibility can be as daunting as it is rewarding. It comes with associated costs and implications.
When caring responsibilities take up more than 35 hours per week Carer’s Allowance, a UK taxable benefit, can be claimed.
But what exactly is Carer’s Allowance? Who qualifies, how much money can be claimed and who can apply?
Carer’s Allowance Explained
Carer’s allowance is a taxable benefit aimed at supporting people whose caring responsibilities limit their ability to work full time. If someone needs regular help with their activities of daily life such as: cleaning, cooking, shopping, bathing and dressing, than the person providing that care can be seen as a carer and can apply for benefits.
Who Qualifies for Carers Allowance?
You could qualify if you:
- Are aged 16 or over
- Are not in full-time education or studying for more than 21 hours a week
- Live in England, Scotland or Wales
- Provide regular and substantial care to someone for 35 hours or more per week
- Do not earn more than £132 a week after tax, National Insurance Contributions and expenses (carers receiving a higher income may still be eligible)
- Meet the criteria eligibility about the type of care being given and the circumstances of the care recipient – full criteria and details at the GOV.UK website
- The person you are caring for is in receipt of specified benefits – listed here
- Your partner who shares caring responsibilities is not already claiming
Can Part-Time Workers Claim Carer’s Allowance?
Not all carers can or want to give up paid employment completely; working does not disqualify a carer from being able to receive the allowance as long as the eligibility criteria of hours and earnings are met.
Further support for carers is also available including ‘Respite’ or ‘short break’ care. This includes breaks of up to a few hours provided by day care centres, volunteers or paid workers. An assessment is needed to see if this can be funded by your local council.
Carer’s Allowance Payments – How Much You Could Receive
Carer’s Allowance pays carers up to £69.70 per week. The exact amount is calculated on the earnings of the carer. National Insurance contributions and savings are not taken into consideration.
The allowance is paid every four weeks and is counted as taxable income.
You can check your eligibility for Carer’s Allowance at the GOV.UK website and filling in the online form, alternatively the form can be returned by post.
For further advice the Carer’s Allowance Unit is contactable on 0800 731 0297.
From Carer to A Career in Care
For many carers the next obvious step is to utilise the skills and experience they have gained and apply them to a career in care. At Frank & Partners we provide training, guidance and support to help you find your ideal role in healthcare.
Contact us here to explore your new career in healthcare.