The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has said that thousands of people throughout the UK could be missing out on up to £3,624 through a government payment.
According to the UK Government department, many households may be eligible for Carer's Allowance as well as a Christmas bonus. And for people struggling amid the cost of living crisis, the money may be a lifeline ahead of winter.
Charity Carers UK has stated that one out of every eight people acts as a carer for somebody else. This means that approximately 6.5 million people are unable to commit to work as many hours as they would like and have a lower income as a result.
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As reported by Lincolnshire Live, the DWP offers Carer's Allowance worth as much as £270 per month. Approximately 500,000 people are missing out on the benefit and the UK Government has urged people to check if they are eligible.
With the cost of living crisis continuing to worsen and energy bills rising, it is important to make sure that you are receiving all of the financial help you are entitled to. Additionally, through Carer's Allowance, you may qualify for a £10 Christmas bonus.
How Carer’s Allowance works
If you earn under £132 per week and care for somebody else who claims specific benefits for 35 hours per week or more, you could receive £69.70 a week. The qualifying benefits include Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance.
You are not required to live with or be related to the individual you care for. You also will not receive any extra money if you care for more than one person.
If another person cares for the same individual as you, only one of you can receive Carer's Allowance. The exact amount of money you will receive depends on the benefits the person you are caring for claims.
How to claim Carer’s Allowance
If you believe you are eligible for Carer’s Allowance, then you should complete the application form at GOV.UK. However, before you do so, ensure you have your:
- National Insurance number (if you have a partner you’ll need theirs too)
- Bank or building society details (unless you get your State Pension)
- Employment details and latest payslip if you’re working
- P45 if you’ve recently finished work
- Course details if you’re studying
- Details of any expenses, for example pension contributions or the cost of caring for your children or the disabled person while you’re at work
You will also be required to provide information about the individual you care for, including their:
- Date of birth and address
- National Insurance number if they’re 16 or over
- Disability Living Allowance reference if they’re under 16
Claims can be backdated by up to three months.
Additionally, carers are eligible for other benefits that could provide major financial savings throughout the year. Discounts for Carers is free for carers to register and provides savings on phone and broadband bills, food and clothes shopping, and travel and holidays.
Extra benefits that carers could be eligible for include:
- Carers could get Universal Credit payments from the DWP
- They may also be able to get help with housing payments if they are entitled to Universal Credit
- Some Universal Credit claimants also get help towards their council tax bills
- Check schemes like WaterSure for up to 50 percent off water bills
- People who aren't eligible for Carer’s Allowance might get the Carer’s Element of Universal Credit
- Discounts on shopping and bills at discountforcarers.com
- A cashback card for carers at discountforcarers.com
- Days out - The National Trust give free entry to carers or companions of disabled visitors
- The Cinema Exhibitors’ Association allows a disabled cinema customer to get a complimentary ticket for someone to go with them.
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