Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Carer Premium?
The Carer Premium is an extra amount added to means-tested legacy benefits (like Housing Benefit and Income Support) if you receive Carer's Allowance. It is £42.75/week in 2025/26.
What is the Carer Element in Universal Credit?
The Carer Element is £198.31/month added to your Universal Credit award. You qualify if you are entitled to Carer's Allowance, even if you don't receive it because of the overlapping benefits rule.
Can I get the Carer Premium if I don't actually receive Carer's Allowance?
Yes. If you are "entitled to" Carer's Allowance (meet all conditions but it overlaps with another benefit like State Pension), you can still get the Carer Premium.
Does the Carer Premium affect Carer's Allowance?
No. They are separate entitlements. Carer's Allowance is £81.90/week; the Carer Premium is an addition on top of your means-tested benefit.
Can couples both claim the Carer Element?
Yes. In Universal Credit, if both partners are carers of different disabled people, both can have a Carer Element, adding £396.62/month to the household award.
What is the Carer Addition in Pension Credit?
The Additional Amount for Carers is £45.60/week added to your Pension Credit Guarantee Credit if you receive Carer's Allowance.
What happens to the Carer Premium if Carer's Allowance stops?
If you stop receiving Carer's Allowance and are no longer entitled to it, the Carer Premium will also stop. Notify the DWP promptly.
Is the Carer Premium taxable?
Carer's Allowance is taxable but most means-tested benefits including the Carer Premium element are not income-taxable.
Who counts as a disabled person for Carer's Allowance?
The person you care for must receive middle or higher rate DLA Care, PIP Daily Living component (either rate), or Attendance Allowance.
How do I claim the Carer Premium?
It is automatically added when you claim the relevant benefit and notify the DWP that you receive Carer's Allowance. For UC, it is part of your claim.
Can I get the Carer Premium on ESA?
Yes. The Carer Premium can be added to Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance if you are in the support group and receive Carer's Allowance.
What if I care for two people?
You can only receive one Carer Premium/Element per carer regardless of how many people you care for. However, each additional carer in the household can claim their own.