Universal Credit

xox_kylie_xox

Hi

I’ve recently applied (and got) Carers allowance for looking after my mum who has PIP as she has rheumatoid arthritis.

If I claim UC will I automatically be placed in the no work group as I claim Carers allowance or not?

poppy123456

Hi and welcome,

Yes you would be placed into the no work requirements group but you need to make sure you tell them that you're caring for someone when you make the claim.

The carers allowance will be classed as income for the UC claim and this will reduce your UC by £286 per month. When you receive your first statement you need to made sure they add the carers element, which is £160.20 per month.

xox_kylie_xox

Hi poppy,

Thankyou for your reply.
Will the Carers element not be automatically added when I apply and tell them I’m caring for my mum?

poppy123456

No problem. Yes it should be but don't take anything for granted with DWP, you should always check your monthly statement.

Adrian_Scope

Hi @xox_kylie_xox. It's the carer element of UC that puts you in the "no work group" and as Poppy said, while this should be automatically added when you claim and inform them that you're a carer, it's important to check as sometimes it gets missed. 
When you attend your initial ID appointment you can also ask them to ensure it's verified.