People who do not qualify for Carer's Allowance can still boost State Pension payments in retirement
14.11.2022 - 17:05
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
Carer’s Allowance is a benefit delivered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to people across the UK who are looking after a friend or family member for at least 35 hours each week. Eligible claimants receive a weekly payment of £69.70, but if you live in Scotland, you will also receive Carer’s Allowance Supplement, an additional payment of £245.70 which is made twice each year - the next one is due in December.
The Scottish Government is working towards delivering a new benefit that will replace Carer’s Allowance by the end of next year, with a full national rollout planned for spring 2024. Scottish Carer's Assistance promises to provide an ‘improved service’, designed with carers to meet their needs, and in line with Scottish Government principles of fairness, dignity and respect.
However, many people may not be aware that unpaid carers who do not qualify for Carer’s Allowance may qualify for Carer’s Credit.
You could get Carer’s Credit if you’re caring for someone for at least 20 hours each week. It is a National Insurance credit that helps with gaps in your National Insurance record and is important because your State Pension is based on your National Insurance record.
To qualify for any State Pension payment you need at least 10 years’ worth of National Insurance credits. For the full New State Pension - currently worth £185.15 per week - you will need 35 years.
It also means that you can take on caring responsibilities without affecting your ability to qualify for the State Pension.
To get Carer’s Credit you must be:
The person you’re looking after must get one of the following:
DWP guidance on GOV.UK adds that if the person you’re caring for does not get one of these benefits, you may still be able to get
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