Hi, my name is GerberaJ9! Eligibility for UC, disabled son and Carers Allowance

GerberaJ9

My son is 16 and receives only 3 hours of education per week mainly due to him not being able to handle any more because of his conditions. He has higher rate Care and Mobility PIP.

I understood from government online guides that he may be eligible for UC if he is deemed LCWRA.

Following an in person appointment at the local JC today, we were phoned to say he wouldn't be entitled because I receive carers allowance and child benefit for him. The latter of which we don't, but what has what I receive for caring for him got to do with his claim? At the time I didn't know what to say but it didn't match with anything I read online when I looked afterwards so I've asked for a MR.

I understand if he was in full time education and I know he ought to be but he can't manage it.

Have I misunderstood the entitlement criteria?

Many thanks for reading.

Rachel_Scope

Hi @GerberaJ9 and welcome to the community! UC can be very confusing but I've tried to find the information from the Government website for you.

The eligibility rules state that those aged 16 or 17 can make a claim for UC if you have a health condition or disability and have medical evidence for it, such as a fit note.

As you receive Carers Allowance, your Universal Credit payment will be reduced by an amount equal to your Carer’s Allowance payment. So any UC payment would take into account your Carer's Allowance so you would be no better off.

However, as your son has a disability, You might get an extra monthly amount if any of your children are disabled. You’ll get this extra amount no matter how many children you have. 

You’ll get:

• £156.11 if you get the lower rate
• £487.58 if you get the higher rate.

This is not something I'm overly familiar with and there are some wonderful members here who are a lot more knowledgeable who will hopefully let me know if there are any mistakes here. From looking at the Government website, I don't understand the reason behind you being denied UC being due to Carer's Allowance. I'm glad you've applied for a MR and I hope this info has helped somewhat 😊

GerberaJ9

Thanks for your reply Rachel.

I've read and reread all the government information too and I'm still not clear.

My son is making a claim for himself so what does me getting carers allowance have to do with anything?

It's not me that's claiming UC - that's what I'm confused about.

Thanks,

Janine

Rachel_Scope

I'm just as confused as you are! My understanding is that it shouldn't matter. Maybe try calling them to get more information?

Will you let us know when you find out?