Help for carers
Carer's may face financial costs when they are caring for someone with cancer, but there is help available.
Carer's Allowance
If you are caring for someone who is receiving the care component of Disability Living Allowance at the middle or higher rate (or Attendance Allowance), you may be eligible for Carer's Allowance. You need to be aged 16 or over and caring for someone for at least 35 hours a week to qualify for this benefit.
-
You don't need to be related to, or living with, the person you care for
-
You can be working, but there is a weekly earnings limit of £95 a week after certain deductions
-
You cannot claim Carer's Allowance if you are studying full-time (21 hours a week or more)
Carer's Allowance is £50.55 a week, with extra amounts for dependent adults. If you are awarded Carer's Allowance you may also be entitled to the Carer's Premium.
This is an extra amount of money that can be added to means-tested benefits such as:
Carer's Allowance overlaps with certain benefits, including:
You cannot be paid Carer's Allowance if you receive the same amount or more from these overlapping benefits. However, it may still be worth claiming Carer's Allowance because you might become eligible for a means-tested benefit as a result of receiving the Carer's Premium. If you are already receiving means-tested benefits, you could receive the Carer's Premium (see above). You may also receive a Christmas bonus and National Insurance contribution credits towards other benefits.
Claiming Carer's Allowance can affect the benefits claimed by the person you care for. It is a good idea to speak to a benefits adviser who will be able to advise you on the best course of action for you and the person you care for.
How can I claim?
For an application pack, ring the free Benefits Enquiry Line (BEL) on 0800 882200 or textphone 0800 243355. You can also get a pack from your local Jobcentre Plus, social security office or Pension Centre or see www.direct.gov.uk/carers
In Northern Ireland
You can get claim forms from the Disability and Carers Service on 028 9090 6186 or from your local Social Security or Jobs and Benefits office.
You may be entitled to other financial help such as Income Support, Pension Credit, disability benefits such as Disability Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance or help with health costs.
Benefits advisors
For more information, c