It depends on how much the carer is earning, and what other income and savings are in the household. There might be an entitlement to Carers Allowance and/or a means tested benefit entitlement such as Universal Credits, Council Tax Reduction. There are some allowable deductions from earnings which might mean that the carer is earning less than the £128 a week earnings ceiling to qualify for Carers Allowance.
Key points for Carers Allowance:
- Must be caring at least 35 hours a week
- Must not earn over £128 a week
- Cared for person must be in receipt of a qualifying benefit (AA, or standard rate of the daily living rate of PIP/DLA middle rate care)
- Can backdate for up to 3 months
- Is taxable and can negatively impact on other benefits like Council Tax Reduction, Housing Benefit and Tax Credits
- Can have negative implications for the cared for person if they receive Pension Credit
- The rate is: £67.25 a week
- Can give carers premiums/credits on other benefits
- Can give National Insurance Credits
- Claim online or can request a paper form
There are other concession schemes available from the Council Tax office, such as re-banding a property to a lower banding if there is more room needed for disability equipment. There is also a scheme to remove someone from a bill if they can be shown to have a reduced mental capacity (this can give rise to 25% off if only two people are in the household). The carer might also be eligible for Carers National Insurance Credits if the carer cares for at least 20 hours a week.