Carer's Credit | People First

Carer's credit is a benefit for carers who do not qualify for Carer's Allowance. It comes in the form of National Insurance contribution top ups, instead of money that you'll receive.

Many carers have gaps in their National Insurance contributions, because it's difficult to maintain an unbroken employment record whilst providing care. Carer's credits therefore can be used to fill in those gaps so you can claim a full, basic state pension when you reach retirement age.

In order to be eligible for carer's credit, you'll need to satisfy the following conditions:

You must be aged 16 years or over
You aren't yet being paid a state pension
You'll need to be caring for someone for at least 20 hours as week
You don't qualify for carer's allowance (this is a separate form of benefit - carer's allowance means you'll already be automatically getting carer's credits)
The individual you're caring for receives disability allowances or payments, or a health or social worker has 'signed off' your application if the individual you're caring for does not receive any disability allowances or payments.

You can apply for Carer's Credit by applying to the Government. You can get the form online by downloading it from this page.

If you need help completing the forms or have any questions, you can get advice from the Carer's Allowance Unit:-

Tel: 0800 731 0297
Textphone: 0800 731 0317

If you are caring for someone, who is caring for you too, you can both qualify if you both fulfil the above criteria. This will allow you both to protect your basic state pension.

Other information and advice

Carers UK has advice and information on benefits for carers, including Carer's Allowance.

Turn2us provide additional information on the Carer's Credit.

The following websites offers advice on benefits options for carers :