Caring for someone who requires constant support is a challenging task. To help ease this burden, the UK government offers Carers Allowance, a financial benefit for individuals providing care to those in need. As we move into 2024, there are some significant changes expected in Carers Allowance, aimed at better supporting those who dedicate their time to caregiving. In this article, we’ll find the upcoming changes to Carers Allowance, eligibility criteria, and how to claim the benefit.
Carers Allowance
The UK government provides financial assistance to carers who look after seniors or disabled individuals for at least 35 hours per week. This benefit is designed to acknowledge the significant time and effort that informal caregivers invest in providing care.
Starting in April 2024, changes to Carers Allowance are expected, including an increase in the weekly allowance. The amount is set to rise by £5.75 per week, bringing the total weekly payment to £81.90. This increase is part of a broader effort by the government to adjust benefits in line with inflation and the cost of living.
What is Carers Allowance?
Carers Allowance is a financial benefit provided to informal caregivers who help people with disabilities or chronic conditions in their daily lives. This allowance is not means-tested, meaning that the caregiver’s income or savings do not affect their eligibility for the benefit. Instead, the primary consideration is the amount of time the caregiver spends providing care.
While Carers Allowance is taxable, it may affect other benefits that the caregiver or the person they care for receives, such as pension benefits or disability-related payments. To qualify, individuals must earn less than £139 per week or be a student studying part-time (up to 21 hours per week).
Expected Changes
According to the 2023 budget, changes to Carers Allowance were scheduled to take effect in January 2024. However, due to economic factors like inflation and recession, these changes were delayed. Now, with the fiscal year coming to an end, the government is expected to implement an increase of 6.5% in Carers Allowance by April 2024.
This increase means that caregivers already receiving the benefit will notice a rise in their weekly payments starting in April. Over the course of the year, this change will amount to an additional £4258.90 annually for eligible caregivers.
Expected Changes
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Weekly Allowance Increase | £5.75 (Total £81.90 per week) |
| Annual Increase | £4258.90 for eligible caregivers |
| Effective Date | April 2024 |
How to Claim Carers Allowance?
Claiming Carers Allowance can take some time, with the minimum processing period being 13 to 15 days after successful registration. However, the application process is relatively straightforward. Here’s a quick overview of how to claim the benefit:
- Online Application: You can apply online through the official government website (gov.uk). The application will require you to upload documents such as your National Insurance Number, employment details, bank details, and payslips if you’re working.
- Postal Application: If you prefer, you can also apply by post. In this case, you’ll need to complete the form, get it signed by the relevant authorities, and send scanned copies of all necessary documents to the Universal Credit office.
Documents Needed
- National Insurance Number
- Employment details
- Bank account information
- Payslip (if employed)
- Course and expense details (if studying)
Once your application is approved, payments will be made directly into your bank account.
Who Can Claim the Benefit?
Not everyone is eligible for Carers Allowance. To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Caring for a Disabled Person: You must be providing care for someone who receives a disability benefit or state pension.
- Minimum Hours Requirement: You must be providing at least 35 hours of care per week. This care can include physical assistance, monitoring someone prone to self-harm, or helping with daily activities like cooking, cleaning, and bathing.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 16 years old and not enrolled in full-time education.
- Income Threshold: Your weekly earnings must be below £139 after tax.
It’s also important to note that institutional caregivers (such as those employed by hospitals or care homes) are not eligible for Carers Allowance.
If you are already receiving Carers Allowance, you do not need to reapply. The allowance will be automatically adjusted, and the new amount will be deposited directly into your account starting in April 2024.
Eligibility Summary
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Care Hours | 35 hours per week |
| Age Requirement | 16 years and above |
| Income Threshold | Less than £139 per week after tax |
| Eligible Care Recipient | Someone receiving a disability benefit or pension |
| Full-time Education Restriction | Must not be enrolled in full-time education |
Final Thoughts
The upcoming changes to Carers Allowance in 2024 are a positive step toward supporting the invaluable role that informal caregivers play in society. With the weekly allowance set to increase and the government continuing to recognize the financial pressures caregivers face, this benefit will offer much-needed support to those providing care.
If you’re a caregiver and meet the eligibility requirements, it’s important to stay informed about these changes and ensure that you’re receiving the correct amount of financial assistance. For more details on how to apply or for updates on Carers Allowance, visit the official government website.
FAQs
What is the new weekly Carers Allowance amount for 2024?
The amount will increase to £81.90 per week.
When will the Carers Allowance increase take effect?
The increase is expected to take effect in April 2024.
How many hours must I provide care to qualify for the allowance?
You must provide at least 35 hours of care per week.
Is Carers Allowance means-tested?
No, Carers Allowance is not means-tested.
What is the income threshold for Carers Allowance?
Your weekly earnings must be less than £139 after tax.
