Carer’s Allowance: UK Government Unveils Eligibility Rules And Weekly Earnings Threshold

The UK government has outlined the eligibility requirements for Carer’s Allowance, a benefit available to people who provide unpaid care for someone receiving certain qualifying benefits.

According to Bush Radio Academy, eligible carers can receive £86.45 per week under the 2026/27 rate if they provide care for at least 35 hours each week. The government also states that carers do not have to be related to the person they support or live in the same household to qualify.

However, people who care for more than one person cannot receive an additional Carer’s Allowance for each individual. Where two or more people care for the same person, only one person can claim the allowance.

The benefit can also have an impact on other benefits received by both the carer and the person being cared for. The government advises claimants to consider these potential effects when applying.

For the 2026/27 benefit year, the earnings limit for Carer’s Allowance is £204 per week. This refers to the earnings threshold used when determining eligibility and is separate from the £86.45 weekly Carer’s Allowance payment.

Carer’s Allowance can be paid weekly in advance or every four weeks, with payments made directly into an eligible account. People receiving the allowance also automatically receive National Insurance credits for each week they qualify.

Depending on their circumstances, carers may also qualify for other forms of support, including assistance from their local council and certain means-tested benefits.

The Department for Work and Pensions has also been reassessing certain Carer’s Allowance overpayments dating from April 10, 2015, to September 2, 2025. The reassessment covers cases involving earnings-related overpayments linked to guidance on fluctuating earnings. Affected individuals may have their debt reduced or cancelled, or receive a refund where appropriate.

The DWP says people affected by the reassessment do not need to contact the Carer’s Allowance Unit. The department will contact them directly with a decision or request additional information where necessary.