Universal Credit can contain a Carer Element even when there is no Carers Allowance award if you provide care for at least 35 hours a week for a person in who receives certain disability benefits. Carer’s Allowance is a separate benefit from Universal Credit and is taken into account as an income in your assessment, you can combine work and caring. You will be in the no work-related requirements group if you meet the criteria. Your Claimant Commitment may still be adjusted to show the caring responsibilities you have if you don’t meet the required carer test.
You will need to report the following information about your caring responsibilities on your journal:
- the name of the person you care for
- their date of birth
- their National Insurance number
- any disability benefits they receive or have applied for
- the number of hours a week you spend caring for them
- if you are getting or are entitled to Carer’s Allowance
- the contact details of anyone else caring for the same person and if they are getting Carer’s Allowance
- if you receive any income other than Carer’s Allowance for looking after someone
For more information on Universal Credit and to find out if you’re eligible to claim it, visit GOV.UK – Universal Credit.
If you need support contact East Ayrshire Citizens Advice or Universal Credit Support Team.
Universal Credit Helpline
Telephone: 0800 328 5644
Textphone: 0800 328 1344
British Sign Language(BSL) users: Video relay service
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 328 5644