UK Government Offers Carer's Allowance and Reviews Overpayments

The UK government offers a Carer's Allowance of £86.45 per week to individuals who provide unpaid care for at least 35 hours a week to someone receiving certain qualifying benefits. Carers do not need to be related to the person they care for and do not have to live with them.

The allowance does not increase for those caring for multiple individuals, and only one carer can claim for the same person at a time. Claimants should note that receiving this allowance may affect other benefits for both the carer and the individual being cared for.

The payment is taxable for those whose income exceeds the Personal Allowance threshold. Additionally, carers receive National Insurance credits for each week the allowance is paid.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is currently reviewing overpayments of Carer's Allowance that occurred between April 10, 2015, and September 2, 2025, and will directly contact affected individuals regarding refunds or debt adjustments.