How much is Carer’s Allowance per week
Caring for someone full-time is more than compassion — it’s commitment, time, and sacrifice.
The Carer’s Allowance is designed to recognise that effort by offering a regular weekly payment from the UK government to those who dedicate at least 35 hours a week to care for another person.
Knowing the current rate helps you plan your finances, understand your entitlements, and ensure you’re receiving what you deserve.
💬 It’s not just about the number — it’s about the recognition behind it.
💷 1️⃣ The Current Weekly Rate (2025/26)
As of 7 April 2025, the Carer’s Allowance is £83.30 per week.
This is the standard rate for eligible carers across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
It’s typically paid every 4 weeks, directly into your bank or building society account — meaning you’ll usually receive £333.20 each month.
You can also request weekly payments if you prefer, especially if you rely on regular budgeting.
👉 Official source: www.gov.uk/carers-allowance
⚖️ 2️⃣ What Affects How Much You Receive
Although the flat rate is £83.30 per week, the amount you actually receive depends on your individual situation.
💼 Earnings Limit
To receive Carer’s Allowance, your net earnings (after tax, National Insurance, and certain expenses) must be £196 or less per week.
If your income goes above this limit, you’ll lose eligibility for that week.
🧾 Overlapping Benefits
If you already receive another benefit such as:
- State Pension,
- Employment and Support Allowance, or
- Jobseeker’s Allowance,
you might not be paid the full £83.30.
However, you could still have an “underlying entitlement”, which helps you qualify for extra benefits like:
- Pension Credit,
- Housing Benefit, or
- Council Tax Reduction.
💬 Even if you don’t receive the cash, the entitlement itself can boost other financial supports.
🧮 Tax Implications
Carer’s Allowance is a taxable benefit.
If your total income (including wages and other benefits) exceeds your personal allowance, you may pay tax on part of it.
🏴 3️⃣ Scotland: Carer’s Allowance Supplement
If you live in Scotland and already receive Carer’s Allowance, you’ll get an extra payment twice a year — called the Carer’s Allowance Supplement.
- For June 2025, the payment is £293.50.
- It’s paid automatically, you don’t need to apply.
This supplement recognises the difference between Carer’s Allowance and the average rate of earnings — ensuring Scottish carers receive additional financial support.
👉 Source: www.mygov.scot/carer-supplement
📈 4️⃣ Recent Changes and Rate Increases
Each April, the UK government reviews benefit amounts to keep up with inflation and cost of living.
In April 2025, the rate increased from £81.90 to £83.30 per week, and the earnings limit rose from £151 to £196 per week.
These changes reflect an ongoing effort to ensure the benefit remains relevant to carers’ real-life needs.
📅 Next scheduled review: April 2026 (to be confirmed by DWP).
💰 5️⃣ What You Can Expect in Real Terms
Here’s how the payment works in practice:
| Payment Frequency | Amount | Example Month |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | £83.30 | Paid every 7 days |
| Every 4 Weeks | £333.20 | Paid directly to your account |
| Twice-yearly Supplement (Scotland) | +£293.50 | Paid in June & December |
If your earnings vary week to week, keep records — exceeding the £196 limit in any week can temporarily stop your allowance.
🕘 6️⃣ Payment Schedule and Processing
Carer’s Allowance is usually:
- Paid in arrears (after the period it covers).
- Processed within 4–6 weeks after applying.
- Paid directly to your bank or building society.
If you prefer a different payment cycle, contact the DWP’s Carer’s Allowance Unit.
☎️ 7️⃣ Official Contact Details
Carer’s Allowance Unit (England, Wales & Scotland)
📞 Telephone: 0800 731 0297
📠 Textphone: 0800 731 0317
📡 Relay UK: Dial 18001 + 0800 731 0297
🕘 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
📬 Freepost DWP Carer’s Allowance Unit
Northern Ireland – Disability and Carers Service
📞 0800 587 0912
🌐 www.nidirect.gov.uk
❓ FAQ – Common Questions
1️⃣ How much is Carer’s Allowance in 2025?
£83.30 per week (effective from 7 April 2025).
2️⃣ How often is it paid?
Every 4 weeks (or weekly if preferred).
3️⃣ Is it taxable?
Yes — it counts as income for tax purposes.
4️⃣ Can I earn money while receiving it?
Yes, up to £196 per week (after deductions).
5️⃣ Do I get extra support in Scotland?
Yes — Carer’s Allowance Supplement (£293.50 twice yearly).