How much is Carer’s Allowance per week

ByThiago SF

Carer’s Allowance is the main benefit in the UK designed to provide financial recognition for people who spend a significant part of their time looking after someone with a disability or long-term health condition.

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While it is not a wage for caring, it offers a regular weekly amount to help reduce the financial pressures faced by carers. Understanding the exact weekly rate and the conditions that may affect it is crucial for anyone considering a claim.

Current weekly rate (2025/26)

As of 7 April 2025, the weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance is £83.30 per week.

This marks a small increase compared with the 2024/25 rate of £81.90 per week, reflecting the annual uprating of benefits in line with government policy.

The rate is fixed nationally and does not change based on where you live in the UK (with the exception of Scotland, which provides an additional supplement – explained below).

It is important to note that Carer’s Allowance is paid at a flat rate. There are no higher or lower tiers depending on your circumstances: if you qualify, the weekly amount is the same for all eligible carers.

When might you receive less or none?

Even though the official weekly rate is £83.30, some carers do not receive the full amount. There are several reasons why:

  • Overlapping benefits: If you receive certain other benefits, such as a full State Pension, you may not be paid Carer’s Allowance on top of it. Instead, you may receive what is known as an underlying entitlement, which can increase the amount of other benefits (like Pension Credit or Housing Benefit) but does not add an extra weekly payment.
  • Earnings limit: To remain eligible, your net earnings must not exceed the weekly limit (after deductions). If you earn above the threshold, you may lose your entitlement altogether.
  • Short-term changes in caring role: If the person you care for no longer qualifies for a disability benefit, or if your hours of care fall below 35 per week, your payments may be reduced or stopped.

This means that while the rate is fixed, the amount you personally receive can vary depending on your circumstances.

Earnings limit and impact

Carer’s Allowance is directly tied to your earnings. For 2025/26, the earnings limit is £196 per week after tax, National Insurance, and certain allowed expenses.

Allowed deductions include:

  • Contributions to an occupational or personal pension scheme.
  • Half of what you pay into registered childcare or replacement care.
  • Some work-related expenses (for example, certain travel costs).

If your net pay after these deductions is £196 or less, you can still qualify. If it is even slightly higher, your claim will likely be refused. This is one of the most important rules affecting how much you actually benefit from the scheme.

Additional notes: Scotland supplement and regional support

While the core weekly rate is the same across the UK, carers in Scotland receive an additional payment known as the Carer’s Allowance Supplement. This is paid twice a year to eligible carers living in Scotland, on top of their regular weekly Carer’s Allowance.

The supplement is designed to reflect the extra recognition given to unpaid carers in Scotland.

Elsewhere in the UK (England, Wales, Northern Ireland), the standard weekly rate applies without this supplement, although carers can still access related support such as Council Tax reductions or other income-related benefits.

How to verify the current rate

The weekly rate is reviewed each April in line with the government’s uprating process. For the most reliable and up-to-date information, carers should:

  • Check the official GOV.UK Carer’s Allowance page for current rates and eligibility rules.
  • Contact the Carer’s Allowance Unit:
    • Telephone: 0800 731 0297
    • Textphone: 0800 731 0317
    • Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 731 0297
    • Address: Freepost DWP Carer’s Allowance Unit (no stamp required)
  • Use advisory services such as Carers UK or Citizens Advice for independent guidance.

These channels ensure you are always working with the latest figures and rules.

❓ FAQ – Carer’s Allowance weekly rate

1. What is the weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance currently?
From April 2025, the rate is £83.30 per week.

2. Has the rate changed recently?
Yes. It increased from £81.90 in 2024/25 to £83.30 in 2025/26, reflecting the annual uprating of benefits.

3. Can I receive the full £83.30 if I also get State Pension?
Not usually. State Pension overlaps with Carer’s Allowance. You may instead have an underlying entitlement, which boosts other benefits rather than paying the allowance separately.

4. What is the earnings threshold and how does it affect my claim?
You must earn £196 or less per week after tax, NI, and certain expenses. Earning above this cancels your entitlement.

5. Where can I check the up-to-date rate?
Always refer to the GOV.UK website or contact the Carer’s Allowance Unit directly by phone or post for the latest official rate.

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