Financial Support & Entitlements

Caring for someone can affect your finances as well as your time and wellbeing. You may have extra costs, reduced working hours, or have had to leave work altogether. There is financial support available for many carers and for the people they support, but the system can feel complex. This page outlines the main areas to explore and where to get further help and guidance.

Not every carer will qualify for every type of support, but it is always worth checking your situation and getting advice before deciding you are not eligible.

Carer’s Allowance

Carer’s Allowance is the main national benefit for people who provide regular unpaid care.

You may be able to claim Carer’s Allowance if:

  • You provide care for at least a minimum number of hours each week for one person
  • The person you care for receives a qualifying disability benefit
  • You meet the earnings and eligibility rules
  • You are aged 16 or over and meet residence requirements

Carer’s Allowance can affect other benefits — both yours and the person you care for — so it is important to seek advice before applying. In some cases, you may not receive the payment directly but may still qualify for an “underlying entitlement” that increases other benefits.

Next step: Use a benefits checker or speak to a carers advice service before applying

Disability-Related Expenses and Benefits

Financial support is also available to help cover the extra costs of disability or long-term health needs for the person you support. These benefits are not based on income and are intended to recognise additional daily living and mobility needs.

Common examples include:

  • Disability living or personal independence benefits
  • Attendance-related benefits for older people
  • Mobility support schemes
  • Grants and one-off support funds
  • Equipment and home adaptation funding

These payments are usually claimed by the person with the health condition or disability, but they can significantly improve the financial stability of the caring situation and may unlock other types of help.

Next step: Check which disability benefits are in place and whether the level awarded still reflects current needs.

Council Assessments and Funding

Your local authority can carry out assessments that look at both the needs of the person being cared for and your needs as a carer.

A carer’s assessment looks at:

  • How caring affects your life, health, and work
  • What support or breaks would help you continue caring
  • Whether funded support or services may be appropriate

A needs assessment for the cared-for person looks at:

  • Daily living needs
  • Safety and independence
  • Support services and funding eligibility

Following assessment, support might include:

  • Funded respite or short breaks
  • Direct payments
  • Support services
  • Equipment or adaptations
  • Wellbeing support for the carer

Eligibility depends on needs and circumstances, but you have the right to request an assessment even if you think you may not qualify.

Next step: Request a carers assessment through your local council adult social care team.

Budgeting Help and Financial Advice

Many carers experience financial pressure due to reduced income, higher household costs, or caring-related expenses. Specialist advice can help you make the most of your income and avoid missing out on support.

Help is available with:

  • Benefits checks and applications
  • Debt and money advice
  • Household budgeting
  • Energy and utility support schemes
  • Grant searches
  • Emergency support funds

Independent advice services and carers organisations can provide free, confidential guidance and help with forms and appeals.

Next step: Contact a carers support organisation or independent advice service for a full financial check-up.