Can I claim Universal Credit if I care for someone and will claiming Carers Allowance affect it?

7 Sept 2026, 11:00
Q A Reader Asker

Can I claim Universal Credit if I care for someone and will claiming Carers Allowance affect it?

A ClaimGuide Team Answered by

You may be able to claim Universal Credit while caring for someone, if you meet the usual eligibility rules. If you care for at least 35 hours a week for someone receiving a qualifying disability benefit, you may qualify for the Universal Credit carer element; tell Universal Credit about your caring responsibilities because it may not be added automatically. You can sometimes receive Carer's Allowance as well, but it is normally deducted from Universal Credit pound for pound, although the carer element may still apply. Check the latest rules and rates on GOV.UK, as eligibility depends on your circumstances.

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