500,000 UK Carers Missing Out on £2371 Per Year
Over 10 million individuals in the UK provide unpaid care to others. While many are eligible for government benefits like Universal Credit and Carer’s Allowance, approximately 500,000 miss out on the Carer Premium.
The Carer Premium, which was recently increased by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to £2371 per year, aims to offset the additional expenses associated with caregiving. It provides an extra £198.31 monthly to those who dedicate their time to supporting others.
Importantly, one does not need to claim Carer’s Allowance to receive the premium, ensuring that those who may be ineligible for the allowance due to their own benefits or pension payments exceeding the threshold receive the necessary support.
Benefits Eligible for Carer Premium
The Carer Premium is available to individuals receiving the following benefits:
– Universal Credit (UC)
– Income Support
– Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) – income-related
– Employment Support Allowance (ESA) – income-related
– Housing Benefit
– Pension Credit
– Tax Credits (Child and Working)
– Council Tax Support
It is important to note that the Carer Premium may impact the benefits of the person receiving care. If the premium is paid to the carer but they do not qualify for Carer’s Allowance, the benefits received by the person receiving care may be reduced. This primarily affects the Severe Disability Premium, but carers are advised to consult with a welfare adviser if concerned.
How to Claim Carer Premium
Carers UK advises that when Carer’s Allowance is awarded, the main means-tested benefits received should be automatically adjusted to include the premium. However, it is essential to verify this directly with the Carer’s Allowance Unit or Disability and Carers Service (in Northern Ireland). Additionally, informing the Housing Benefit department may be beneficial, as they may not be immediately aware of the award, and the carer may miss out on additional benefits.
For those receiving Universal Credit, it is crucial to inform the DWP of their carer status and report any Carer’s Allowance award. The Universal Credit team may not increase or backdate benefits if not notified of caring responsibilities, even if the individual was already providing care but not receiving Carer’s Allowance.
