Can I claim Carers Allowance?

MarkH1066

Good morning. I am currently looking after my elderly Father. He was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in December. He is on Oxygen for 15 hours a day. Although I no longer live with him (I recently got married) I am visiting him everyday to make sure he is ok. I do his weekly shop, his laundry and general household chores. I work full time so my day is a 14 hour shift. Looking after my Dad is of the most paramount of importance and I wouldn't do anything otherwise. He recently asked me to claim for carers allowance but looking on google I am confused as to where to look. I've been on to the government website which for to say a little unhelpful. Asking for advice and suggestions. Many thanks in advance

Ami2301

Hi @MarkH1066 welcome to the community! 

In order for you to be eligible for Carer's Allowance, your father must receive one or more of the following:

• Personal Independence Payment - Daily Living Component.
• Disability Living Allowance - Middle or Highest Care Rate.
• Attendance Allowance.

Is your father in receipt of any?

P.S. Congratulations on your marriage!

MarkH1066

Hiya. Thanks for your reply. My Dad doesn’t receive any benefits, he’s just been a honest hard working bloke and never looked into anything like that. Perhaps he needs to now

Ami2301

If your father is under the age of 65 then he can app,y for PIP. If he is over 65 then he will need to apply for Attendance Allowance. Let me know which benefit is appropriate and I will get the information up for you

MarkH1066

He is 73 this year. If you could provide the information I will be so grateful. Thank you very much ?

Ami2301

There is lots of information provided in our Attendance Allowance section. This features the criteria to be eligible to claim, how to claim and helplines.

Also, there is information about getting support with filling in forms.

Let us know if you need any further help

MarkH1066

Thank you for your help. I shall let you know if I need any other assistance. Thanks again ?

Pippa_Alumni

Hi @MarkH1066, and a warm welcome to the community! Glad to see you've had some brilliant advice from @Ami2301 already. Please do keep us updated and we'll advise where we can.