From 6 April 2026, some benefits for unpaid carers have increased following the government’s annual update.
Carer’s Allowance, the main benefit for people caring for someone who is ill, disabled or older, has gone up by £3.15 per week. This means it has increased from £83.30 to £86.45 per week.
The earnings limit has also increased. Carers can now earn up to £204 per week (after certain deductions) and still qualify for Carer’s Allowance. This is up from £196. This change may help some carers who are balancing work and caring to stay eligible for support.
Other benefits have also increased:
- The Carer Element of Universal Credit has risen to £209.34 per month
- The Carer Addition for Pension Credit has increased to £48.15 per week
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:
“The increase to the Carer’s Allowance earnings threshold to over £200 a week is welcome news for the many carers who are juggling paid work with caring responsibilities.
Because the threshold has risen, some carers who previously earned too much to qualify may find they are now eligible for support. We are encouraging all carers to check their entitlement so they don’t miss out on money they could now receive.
Even with the recent increase, Carer’s Allowance remains the lowest benefit of its kind. Nearly two-thirds of Carer’s Allowance recipients live in poverty, and the vast majority think it falls short of meeting their financial needs. Carers UK is calling for a comprehensive review of the benefit, including a reassessment of its eligibility rules, to ensure carers receive meaningful and sustainable support in the long-term.”
Who can claim Carer’s Allowance?
You may be able to claim Carer’s Allowance if you:
- care for someone for at least 35 hours a week
- earn £204 a week or less (after deductions)
- care for someone who receives a qualifying disability benefit
- are aged 16 or over
- are not in full-time education
Your earnings include income from employment or self-employment after tax, National Insurance and certain expenses.
Some allowable expenses include:
- 50% of pension contributions
- specialist clothing or equipment for work
- travel between workplaces not paid by your employer
- business costs if you are self-employed
What this means for you
If you are working as well as caring, it’s worth checking whether you may now be eligible for Carer’s Allowance due to the higher earnings limit.
Find out about financial support you may be eligible for and where to access support and guidance.
