Your total earnings before tax and NI deductions.
You must care for at least 35 hours per week to qualify.
Reg. 07380272 · England & Wales · Est. 2010
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You qualify for Carer's Allowance
£81.90/week (£4,258.80/year)
Everything you need to know about Carer's Allowance in the UK
What is Carer's Allowance?
Carer's Allowance is a weekly benefit of £81.90 paid to people who spend at least 35 hours per week caring for someone with a substantial disability. It is not means-tested, but there is an earnings limit. You do not need to be related to or live with the person you care for. It is paid every week directly into your bank account and is taxable income, although many carers do not earn enough to pay tax on it.
What counts as earnings?
Earnings include income from employment and self-employment after allowable deductions such as income tax, National Insurance, pension contributions, and certain childcare costs. It does not include income from savings, investments, or other benefits. If you are self-employed, your net profit after business expenses is used. The earnings limit is £196.00 per week after deductions.
Can I work and claim Carer's Allowance?
Yes, you can work and still claim Carer's Allowance as long as your net earnings do not exceed £196.00 per week after deductions for tax, National Insurance, pension contributions, and certain childcare costs. There is no restriction on the number of hours you work — only your earnings are tested. If your earnings go over the limit in one week, you lose the full week's payment.
Does Carer's Allowance affect other benefits?
Claiming Carer's Allowance can affect other benefits you receive. It may reduce your means-tested benefits like Universal Credit, but you may qualify for a carer premium or carer element on top of other benefits such as Pension Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction. It does not affect the disability benefits received by the person you care for. It is worth checking your full benefit entitlement when you claim.
Who do I need to be caring for?
You need to be caring for someone who receives a qualifying disability benefit such as the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) at either rate, Attendance Allowance at either rate, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) at the middle or highest care rate, or Armed Forces Independence Payment. The person does not need to be a family member and you do not need to live with them.
HMRC-Aligned: This calculator uses official HMRC rates and thresholds for the 2025/26 tax year (6 April 2025 – 5 April 2026). Results are indicative — for complex situations, consult a qualified adviser or contact the Carer's Allowance Unit directly.
This calculator uses official rates and thresholds from:
Last verified: February 2026 · Tax year 2025/26. Results are indicative — consult a qualified accountant for personalised advice.
Reviewed by M. Samiuddin Quadri, ACCA — Chartered Certified Accountant at Gladstone & Co. · Updated for the 2025/26 tax year.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current HMRC rates and thresholds for the 2025/26 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before making financial decisions. Read our terms