How to apply for Carer’s Allowance in the UK

ByThiago SF

In the United Kingdom, Carer’s Allowance is one of the most significant social supports available for people who spend a large part of their time caring for someone with a disability or health condition.

How to check if I’m eligible for Carer’s Allowance
When is Carer’s Allowance paid
How to report a change in circumstances for Carer’s Allowance
How to contact the Carer’s Allowance helpline
How to claim backdated Carer’s Allowance

It’s not only a financial contribution — it’s a recognition from society for the unpaid care that sustains families, communities, and dignity every day.

If you look after someone for at least 35 hours per week, you may qualify for this benefit.

The payment helps reduce financial pressure while ensuring that the role of carers remains valued and visible.

👥 Step 1 — Check if You’re Eligible

Before you apply, it’s essential to make sure you meet the conditions.

You can claim Carer’s Allowance if:

  • You’re 16 or older.
  • You care for someone at least 35 hours a week.
  • You earn £139 or less per week after tax (2025 figures may vary slightly).
  • The person you care for receives one of these qualifying benefits:
    • Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
    • Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
    • Attendance Allowance
    • Armed Forces Independence Payment, or similar allowances.

You don’t have to be related or live with the person, but you cannot claim if you’re studying full-time or already receiving certain overlapping benefits (like a State Pension higher than Carer’s Allowance).

📝 Step 2 — How to Apply

There are three main ways to apply for Carer’s Allowance in the UK:

💻 1. Apply Online

The easiest way is to apply through the official government website:
👉 www.gov.uk/carers-allowance

You’ll need:

  • Your National Insurance number
  • Details of your income and employment
  • The National Insurance number of the person you care for
  • Bank details for payment

The online process takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll get confirmation immediately after submitting.

✉️ 2. Apply by Post

If you prefer to apply by mail, download and print the form DS700 from the same page or request it by calling the Carer’s Allowance Unit.

Mail the completed form to:
Carer’s Allowance Unit
Mail Handling Site A
Wolverhampton
WV98 2AB

If you receive a State Pension, you should use the DS700(SP) form.

☎️ 3. Request a Paper Form

You can call to request a claim form to be sent to you:

  • Phone (UK): 0800 731 0297
  • Textphone: 0800 731 0317
  • Relay UK: dial 18001 then 0800 731 0297
  • Northern Ireland: Disability and Carers Service 0800 587 0912

These lines are open Monday to Friday, and advisors can guide you on the application process.

📄 Step 3 — Documents You’ll Need

When applying, make sure you have:

  • Your National Insurance number
  • Details about earnings and expenses
  • Information about the person you care for
  • Bank account details for payment
  • Your course details if you study part-time

Having these ready will make your claim faster and more accurate.

🕰️ Step 4 — Backdating Your Claim

You can backdate your claim up to three months if you’ve met all the conditions during that time.

When applying online or on paper, you’ll be asked if you want your claim to start earlier — always answer this section carefully.

💷 Step 5 — What Happens After You Apply

Once you’ve submitted your claim:

  • The DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) will review your information.
  • You’ll receive a decision letter confirming whether you qualify and from which date.
  • Payments are usually made every 4 weeks, though you can request weekly payments.

If your circumstances change — for example, your work hours, income, or the condition of the person you care for — you must report these changes immediately at:
👉 www.gov.uk/carers-allowance-report-change

⚖️ Step 6 — If Your Application Is Refused

If you disagree with the decision, you have the right to request a mandatory reconsideration.

You’ll need to contact the DWP within one month of the decision letter and explain why you think it should be reviewed.

You can then appeal if you still disagree after the reconsideration.

☎️ Step 7 — Contact Details and Support

For help or updates, contact:

Carer’s Allowance Unit (England, Scotland & Wales)
📞 0800 731 0297
📠 Textphone: 0800 731 0317
📬 Mail: Carer’s Allowance Unit, Mail Handling Site A, Wolverhampton WV98 2AB
🌐 www.gov.uk/carers-allowance

Northern Ireland residents:
📞 0800 587 0912
🌐 www.nidirect.gov.uk

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ How long does it take to get a Carer’s Allowance decision?
It usually takes between 3 to 6 weeks for a decision after submitting your application.

2️⃣ Can I work while receiving Carer’s Allowance?
Yes, but your net earnings must stay under £139 per week after deductions.

3️⃣ Will Carer’s Allowance affect other benefits?
It can impact other benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit, so check how it interacts before applying.

4️⃣ Can I backdate my Carer’s Allowance claim?
Yes, claims can be backdated up to 3 months, if you met the eligibility criteria during that period.

5️⃣ How do I report a change in circumstances?
Report changes (income, care situation, studies, etc.) online through:
👉 www.gov.uk/carers-allowance-report-change

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