People Under 67 with Caring Responsibilities Urged to Check £86 Weekly Carer’s Allowance Entitlement

If you are caring for a loved one and are under the state pension age, you could be entitled to Carer’s Allowance—a weekly payment of £86.45—as well as National Insurance credits that boost your future state pension. BBC finance expert Iona Bain highlights that approximately 5.8 million people in the UK are carers, many of whom might not realize they qualify for this support.

Carer’s Allowance is for individuals aged 16 or over who provide at least 35 hours of care per week to someone receiving specific Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance (DLA). To be eligible, claimants must earn no more than £204 per week after tax.

Iona Bain explains, “Carer’s Allowance not only provides important financial assistance but also ensures carers receive National Insurance credits. This is crucial because caring responsibilities often require time away from work, potentially hindering the buildup of contributions needed for a full state pension.”

While claiming, carers should be aware of some complexities. The allowance can affect the benefits of the person being cared for, so it is important to understand all implications and seek advice if necessary. Payments can also be backdated up to three months, with some differences in procedures applying in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Dispelling common myths, Iona states, “You don’t have to be related to or live with the person you care for. You could be a friend, neighbour, or anyone providing hands-on support.” Caring duties can include personal care such as helping with washing, dressing, and cooking, but also practical help like managing bills or shopping.

If you find yourself regularly providing such support, it’s worth checking your eligibility for Carer’s Allowance. Getting the right support can make a significant difference, both financially and towards securing your pension future.