People on certain benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) may be missing out on crucial extra cash that could boost their income by a £2,400 a year. Government chiefs have issued an update on the perks for unpaid carers pointing to an “additional amount” that could be worth thousands.
Work and Pensions minister, Sir Stephen Timms, has spoken about the extra cash aid for those juggling caring commitments. He explained: “In addition to Carer’s Allowance, carers on low incomes can claim income-related benefits, such as Universal Credit and Pension Credit. These benefits can be paid to carers at a higher rate than those without caring responsibilities through the carer element and the additional amount for carers respectively.”
With regard to how much the extra help could be worth, Mr Timms stated: “These additional amounts are worth around £2,400 a year.” If you are on Universal Credit and you look after someone eligible for certain health or disability benefits, you could get an extra £198.31 in your bank account each month, or £2,379.72 a year.
This includes if the person you care for is on Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance, among other benefits. Pension Credit claimants could likewise be in for a boost of £45.60 per week if they’re caring for another adult and if they meetother criteria, like getting Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment. This would provide a potential yearly increase of £2,371.20.
Mr Timms highlighted the perks of Carer’s Allowance, noting: “Unpaid carers may be able to receive financial and/or employment support from the department depending on their circumstances. Carer’s Allowance provides a measure of financial support and recognition for people who are not able to work full time due to their caring responsibilities.
“The rate of Carer’s Allowance is £81.90 a week in 2024/25, and from April 2025 this will increase by 1.7 percent to £83.30 a week, net of allowable expenses.” Time is of the essence to apply for Pension Credit. If you get your application in before December 21, you may still get this year’s Winter Fuel Payment, providing an extra £200 or £300. As claimants can backdate Pension Credit claims by three months, you could still hit the qualifying week in September for the payment.