As of April 2025, individuals providing unpaid care in the UK will benefit from a modest increase in their Carer’s Allowance. This essential government benefit supports people who dedicate their time to helping individuals with disabilities, long-term illnesses, or mental health conditions. The updated allowance, set to reflect inflation, provides financial relief to thousands of carers across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Beginning April 7, 2025, the weekly Carer’s Allowance rate will increase from £81.90 to £83.30, translating to £333.20 every four weeks and an annual total of £4,331.60. Here’s a detailed overview of the new changes, payment timelines, eligibility, and how to claim your benefit this year.
Carer’s Allowance Payment Overview for 2025
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| New Weekly Rate (April 2025) | £83.30 |
| Previous Rate (2024) | £81.90 |
| Annual Carer’s Allowance 2025 | £4,331.60 |
| Payment Frequency | Every 4 weeks |
| Minimum Care Requirement | 35 hours/week |
| Additional Carer’s Element | £198.31/month (Universal Credit) |
Carer’s Allowance Increase from 2024 to 2025
In 2024, carers saw a significant increase of 6.7%, raising the weekly rate from £76.75 to £81.90. For 2025, the adjustment is 1.7%, aligning with cost-of-living metrics and designed to maintain support for unpaid carers. More updates on extra benefits or support programs are expected to be released in the Spring Budget of 2025.
Key Allowance Payment Dates in 2025
Carer’s Allowance payments are issued every four weeks, but for those also receiving the Carer Support Payment, two notable lump-sum payments are issued annually:
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June Payment: Disbursed on 7th June 2025, if you’re eligible by 8th April 2025
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December Payment: Disbursed on 6th December 2025, if eligible by 7th October 2025
Backdating Carer’s Allowance Claims
Yes, claims can be backdated up to three months from the date of application, provided the following conditions are met:
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You must have cared for someone for at least 35 hours a week
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The person being cared for must receive one of the following:
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
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Attendance Allowance
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Processing Time for Carer’s Allowance Decisions
Decisions typically take 8 to 12 weeks, but due to processing backlogs, it may extend up to 15 weeks. If approved, payments may be backdated, and funds will be deposited directly into the claimant’s bank account.
Who Can Qualify for Carer’s Allowance?
To receive Carer’s Allowance in the UK, applicants must meet the following conditions:
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Provide 35 or more hours of care per week
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Earn less than £151 per week after deductions (tax, National Insurance)
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Reside in England, Scotland, or Wales for at least two of the last three years
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Not be enrolled in full-time education
Scotland-Specific Carer’s Allowance Rate
In Scotland, the Carer’s Allowance mirrors the UK-wide rate of £81.90 per week from 2024 and also allows backdating for up to three months. The updated April 2025 rate will be aligned with the UK increase.
Impact on Other Government Benefits
Receiving Carer’s Allowance can influence other benefits you or the person you care for might receive. These include:
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Severe Disability Premium
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
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Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
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Attendance Allowance
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Universal Credit
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Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit
Universal Credit and Carer’s Element
Carer’s Allowance counts as income for Universal Credit. If you receive both, the same amount is usually deducted from your UC payment. Still, claiming Carer’s Allowance is advantageous as it helps build National Insurance credits.
If you’re only on Universal Credit, you may still qualify for the Carer’s Element, which currently pays £198.31 per month, even if you don’t receive Carer’s Allowance.
How to Apply for Carer’s Allowance in 2025
Follow these steps to submit your application:
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Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the care hours and earnings threshold
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Prepare Documents: Have proof of ID, earnings (if any), and details of the person you care for
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Complete the Application: Fill out the required form with all details
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Submit and Wait: Once submitted, expect processing to take 8–12 weeks
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Receive Payment: Upon approval, funds are sent directly to your bank account
FAQs
What is the weekly Carer’s Allowance rate from April 2025?
The new weekly rate is £83.30, totaling £4,331.60 annually, with payments made every four weeks.
Can Carer’s Allowance be backdated?
Yes, it can be backdated up to three months if all eligibility conditions were met during that time.
When are the next lump-sum Carer Support Payments?
The two main dates are 7th June 2025 and 6th December 2025 for eligible recipients.
Does Carer’s Allowance affect Universal Credit?
Yes, it counts as income and may reduce your Universal Credit payment by the same amount, but it still provides National Insurance credits.
What if I don’t qualify for Carer’s Allowance but still care for someone?
You might still be eligible for the Carer’s Element of Universal Credit, which pays £198.31 per month, even without claiming Carer’s Allowance.
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