Sami
Thousands of carers in Scotland are set to receive an additional payment of £293.50 later this year. This Carer’s Allowance Supplement is granted to individuals who currently receive Carer’s Allowance or the new Carer Support Payment, which is gradually replacing the former in Scotland.
What Is the Carer’s Allowance Supplement?
The Carer’s Allowance Supplement is a biannual extra financial support payment provided by Social Security Scotland to eligible carers. It is paid twice annually, and recipients do not need to apply to receive it.
- The first installment for 2025 was distributed in June.
- The second payment is scheduled for December 2025.
Those entitled will receive official notification through a letter, and the amount will be deposited directly into their existing bank account.
Carer Support Payment vs Carer’s Allowance
In Scotland, Carer Support Payment is currently phasing in as a replacement for Carer’s Allowance. Despite this transition, both benefits are valued equally, offering £83.30 per week to eligible claimants.
Who Qualifies for Carer’s Allowance?
To be eligible for Carer’s Allowance, you must meet specific conditions:
Care Responsibilities
You must be providing care for at least 35 hours a week. This can involve tasks like:
- Helping with personal hygiene
- Managing household bills
- Taking someone to medical appointments
The Person You Care For Must Be Receiving One of These Benefits
- Personal Independence Payment (Daily Living Component)
- Disability Living Allowance (Middle or Highest Care Rate)
- Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance (Middle or Highest Care Rate)
- Attendance Allowance
- Pension Age Disability Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance (with Industrial Injuries or War Disablement Pension)
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Child Disability Payment (Middle or Highest Care Rate)
- Adult Disability Payment (Standard or Enhanced Daily Living Component)
Additional Eligibility Criteria
You must also:
- Be aged 16 or over
- Not be in full-time education
- Not study for 21 hours or more per week
- Earn no more than £196 per week after deductions
Exceeding this earnings limit by even £1 will disqualify you from receiving Carer’s Allowance.
Note: Only one carer can claim the allowance for any single individual, and you do not need to be related to the person you’re caring for.
How Carer’s Allowance Affects Other Benefits
Claiming Carer’s Allowance can influence both your benefits and those of the person you’re looking after. It’s essential to understand how this payment interacts with other support you or they might receive, as it could lead to reductions or adjustments in total entitlement.
The upcoming £293.50 Carer’s Allowance Supplement provides much-needed financial relief for dedicated carers in Scotland. If you’re receiving Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment, and continue to meet the criteria, you’ll likely receive this payment automatically in December 2025. Staying informed about earnings thresholds and eligibility ensures you don’t miss out on this important support.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the £293.50 Carer’s Supplement?
No. If you’re eligible, Social Security Scotland will send you a letter, and the payment will be automatically deposited.
What happens if I earn more than £196 a week?
If your income goes over the £196 weekly limit, even by £1, you will lose eligibility for Carer’s Allowance.
Can two people claim Carer’s Allowance for the same person?
No, only one individual can claim Carer’s Allowance per person being cared for—even if multiple people provide care.