Carer's Credit

Carer’s Credit was introduced on 6 April 2010. It’s a National Insurance credit that helps carers build up qualifying years for the basic State Pension and additional State Pension.

Am I eligible for Carer's Credit?

To qualify for Carer’s Credit you must care for one or more disabled people for 20 hours or more per week. Each person you care for must receive:

• the Disability Living Allowance care component at the middle or highest rate
• Attendance Allowance at any rate
• or Constant Attendance Allowance at any rate.

You don’t need to apply for Carer’s Credit if you receive Child Benefit for a child under age 12 or get Carer’s Allowance, as you will already get National Insurance credits.

If the person you care for doesn’t receive a qualifying benefit, you may still be awarded Carer’s Credit if you supply a Care Certificate signed by a health or social care professional (HSCP).

How do I claim Carer's Credit?

For full details and to download a Carer's Credit application pack, go to the Directgov page about caring.

If you have any questions about Carer’s Credit, contact the Carer’s Allowance Unit on 0845 608 4321 (or textphone 0845 604 5312). You can read an article about Carer's Credit on the Carer's UK website.