Carer's Allowance Eligibility

Hi just cause
In order to get carer's allowance you will need to show that you provide at least 35 hours per week caring for someone who is receipt of at least the standard rate of PIP daily living or mid rate care for DLA. The person you care for is not allowed to have any other carer claim CA for looking after them. There are also requirements about earnings.

You can claim CA if you get contribution based ESA, however you will only receive the higher value of either CA or cb ESA. It is likely therefore you won't get any additional money.

You have said that you get enhanced rate of PIP for daily living and mobility. I note you have severe mental impairment. I think that DWP may argue that if you can perform care duties for at least 35 hours per week, this conflicts either with your limited capability for work and work related activity (ie eligibility for ESA support group) and/or PIP at enhanced rate. If DWP take this view it is likely to conduct a review and this may result in PIP and/or ESA being removed or reduced.

If you are eligible, and wish to claim CA then I would urge that you seek advice from a specialist advisor, eg at CAB or other similar organisation. Please make sure that you do not put other benefits at risk.

I hope this helps.

LL26

Hello just cause,

I am sorry to hear that your health has deteriorated. It would be remiss of me not to remind you that if there has been a material change, even if it is for the worse, you should notify the DWP of change of circumstances.

Your benefits mean that someone can claim Carers allowance for looking after you, assuming they are caring for you for at least 35 hours a week.

BUT if someone claims Carers Allowance there is the potential for losing some of your own benefits. This is obviously a significant step, so I would strongly advise you seek advice from a specialist advisor, eg at the local CAB or similar organisation. They will be able to double check your paperwork and give you the best personal advice.

Catherine