United Kingdom Carer's Allowance 2026–27
Carer's Allowance has a weekly payment and a separate earnings limit. Caring time, the cared-for person's benefits and residence conditions also affect eligibility.
- Weekly rate
- £86.45 in 2026–27.
- Earnings limit
- £204 a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses.DWP, Carer's Allowance eligibility
- Caring time
- At least 35 hours a week.DWP, Carer's Allowance eligibility
Weekly payment and caring time
DWP's 2026–27 rates table gives Carer's Allowance as £86.45 a week. DWP, Benefit and pension rates (opens in a new tab).
The eligibility rules require at least 35 hours of care a week. The person receiving care must already receive a qualifying benefit, as described in the eligibility guidance. Caring for more than one person does not increase the payment. DWP, Carer's Allowance (opens in a new tab).
The earnings limit
The earnings condition is £204 or less a week after tax, National Insurance and expenses. Earnings include income from employment and self-employment. DWP, Carer's Allowance eligibility (opens in a new tab).
Permitted expenses can include 50% of pension contributions, necessary work equipment, travel between workplaces not paid by an employer, and business costs for self-employed people. Other eligibility conditions include age, education and residence. DWP, Carer's Allowance eligibility (opens in a new tab).
Residence and other benefits
The eligibility page normally requires residence in England or Wales, with exceptions described for armed-forces members abroad and some people living overseas. Residents of Scotland are directed to Carer Support Payment instead of Carer's Allowance. DWP, Carer's Allowance eligibility (opens in a new tab).
Carer's Allowance can affect benefits received by both the carer and the person receiving care. Tax can be payable if the carer's income exceeds the Personal Allowance. For a move from England or Wales to Scotland, GOV.UK states that Carer's Allowance stops 13 weeks after the move and describes a new claim for Carer Support Payment. DWP, Carer's Allowance (opens in a new tab).
Scope
This is general information adapted from government material under the Open Government Licence v3.0, without endorsement or a recommendation. It does not assess individual entitlement or liability.