Do I bother claiming carers allowance when on universal credit?

Mydogstinks

hi. Everyone. Bit of background info, my son is disabled, gets PIP, I work part time (around him) and get UC - I get the carers element with this.
my question is I’m confused about carers allowance, if I was to claim would I lose my UC? I’ve read conflicting things as UC is a means tested benefit so is it worth me trying to claim it?

OverlyAnxious

Hi,

You wouldn't lose UC but you would get an exact deduction on UC for the amount of money that you get from Carers Allowance. So there is no financial benefit to claiming both at the same time, but no loss either.

Carers Allowance provides Class 1 NI Credits, which can help access future benefits for some people. (UC only provides Class 3 Credits for State Pension).

Carers Allowance is also paid more frequently than UC, which some prefer with regards to budgeting.

If your son lives alone and gets SDP with legacy ESA, then you should not claim Carers Allowance as his SDP would be stopped. (I am assuming he lives with you and gets ESA or UC in his right but worth mentioning just in case).

Mydogstinks

thanks for your reply- yes he lives with me , hmmm I just don’t know what to do. To make matters more complicated my job pays 4 weekly which has completely confused the “entitled to” app when I tried to get info from that.
I get a bit extra on UC for caring for him ( think it’s carers element) would I lose that if I claimed carers allowance ?

Lauren29

If you are receiving the Carers Element on UC then this wouldn't be affected if you also claimed Carers Allowance. However if you claim Carers Allowance this would be deducted £ for £ from your UC you wouldn't be better off financially. There is no earnings limit on the Carers Element but you can only earn £196 after certain deductions to receive Carers Allowance.

Mydogstinks

ok .. hmm I may not bother claiming it then on that case.
Thanks for your help! Really appreciate it