Caring for someone often means people can’t work as many hours and therefore take home less money. Yet there is financial support available from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help with the cost of living.
Carers save the UK economy more than £530million every day according to Carers UK.
Figures suggest some 500,000 people aren’t claiming Carer’s Allowance because they aren’t aware they are eligible for this financial assistance.
Even if it affects a claimant’s entitlement to other state benefits, claiming Carer’s Allowance should leave people better off.
Not only could Carer’s Allowance be worth an extra £278 a month, but it also acts as a gateway benefit to further financial help.
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How does carers allowance affect other benefits?
On the Government website it states: “When you claim Carer’s Allowance your other benefit payments may change, but your total benefit payments will usually either go up or stay the same.
“Carer’s Allowance does not count towards the benefit cap.
“If you get Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit, you must contact HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to tell them about your Carer’s Allowance claim.
“If you get Pension Credit, your payments will increase if you’re eligible for Carer’s Allowance.’
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Website Discountforcarers.com offers carers money off car insurance, mobile phones, days out and travel. Other benefits and freebies carers could qualify for include:
- Carer’s could get Universal Credit payments from the DWP
- They may also be able to get help with housing payments if they are entitled to Universal Credit
- Some Universal Credit claimants also get help towards their council tax bills
- Check schemes like WaterSure for up to 50 percent off water bills
- People who aren’t eligible for Carer’s Allowance might get the Carer’s Element of Universal Credit
- Discounts on shopping and bills at discountforcarers.com
- A cashback card for carers at discountforcarers.com
- Days out – The National Trust and English Heritage give free entry to carers or companions of disabled visitors.
- A free bus pass – people should see their local council website for details.
- The Cinema Exhibitors’ Association allows a disabled cinema customer to get a complimentary ticket for someone to go with them.
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