I'm not sure if I am posting this in the right place so apologies if not.
My Niece wgo cares for me is in receipt if carers allowance. Before claiming, she consulted with the UC department and was informed her Universal Credit benefit would not be affected/she could proceed to claim the carer's allowance.
She was also notified she may be entitled to a carers premium to top up the amount of Universal Credit received.
However, she has today contacted the department for UC re a different matter and has veen notified her UC payment is going to be reduced due to her being in receipt of the carers allowance.
She was told the carers allowance is classed as a second income when it will be deducted from the Universal Credit.
Could somebody please explain if this is right??
I'm annoyed that she consulted with UC and was yold it is ok to apply and her UC will not be affected and now been told this.
No letter received to report this/the reduction in payment. Only been told over the phone when dealing with a separate matter!
I'm afraid it is correct, other Income Related Benefits such as ESA(IR) and Income Support have the same rule, she still has a net increase in her UC payments due to the Carers Element being paid.
Gordon
Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
