The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a reminder about the 35-hour rule, which could affect your eligibility for Carer’s Allowance. This benefit provides financial support—typically £83.30 per week or every four weeks—to individuals who care for someone else while claiming certain benefits themselves.
Carer’s Allowance is designed to help those who provide unpaid care. Qualifying care can include everyday tasks such as assisting with shopping, cooking, washing, or accompanying the cared-for person to medical appointments. Beyond weekly payments, recipients may also access additional support, including contributions toward retirement and possible reductions in council tax.
To qualify, you must care for someone at least 35 hours each week. Additionally, the person you care for must be receiving qualifying disability benefits. These include Personal Independence Payment (daily living component), Disability Living Allowance (middle or highest care rate), Armed Forces Independence Payment, Adult Disability Payment (daily living component at standard or enhanced rate), Constant Attendance Allowance (at or above normal maximum rate with Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit), Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance (middle or highest care rate), Constant Attendance Allowance (basic full-day rate with War Disablement Pension), Child Disability Payment (middle or highest care rate), Pension Age Disability Payment, and Attendance Allowance.
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It’s important to note that you don’t need to be related to or live with the person you care for. However, if multiple people share caregiving responsibilities, only one person can claim Carer’s Allowance.
Understanding these rules can help ensure you receive the full support you’re entitled to while caring for someone in need.