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UKNeuroGuide · Benefit guide

Carer’s Credit

Based on official GOV.UK Carer’s Credit guidance. Eligibility depends on caring responsibilities, not income.

Carer’s Credit helps protect your State Pension if you care for someone regularly. It provides National Insurance credits so your future pension is not affected by time spent caring.

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Guidance only. Not legal advice. Rules can change — always check official sources.
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Overview

Carer’s Credit protects your State Pension while you care for someone.
It ensures your future pension is not reduced due to caring responsibilities.
Many carers qualify, even if they do not receive Carer’s Allowance.
This support helps recognise the value of unpaid care.

Important
Eligibility rules can be complex and can change. Always check official guidance and get advice if you can.

Who it’s for

  • People who care for someone for at least 20 hours per week.
  • Unpaid carers.
  • Family members caring for disabled relatives.
  • People caring for someone receiving disability benefits.
  • Carers who do not qualify for Carer’s Allowance.

Eligibility

  • You must care for someone at least 20 hours per week.
  • The person you care for must receive a qualifying disability benefit or require care.
  • You must be aged 16 or over.
  • You must live in the UK.
  • You do not need to be related to the person.
Reminder
This page is guidance only — it can’t confirm whether you will be awarded a benefit.

Eligible conditions

Conditions commonly linked to this benefit.

View all conditions
ADHD — UK eligibility guide
Condition

ADHD UK | Symptoms, Diagnosis and Support Guide

Common eligibility
Autism (Autism Spectrum Condition) — UK eligibility guide
Condition

Autism | Symptoms, Diagnosis and Support Guide

Common eligibility
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder — UK eligibility guide
Condition

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder | Symptoms, Diagnosis and Support Guide

Possible eligibility

How it works

  • You apply through GOV.UK.
  • National Insurance credits are added to your record.
  • These credits help protect your State Pension entitlement.
  • No direct payments are made.

How to apply

  • Apply online or by form.
  • Provide details of your caring role.
  • Submit supporting information if required.
  • Wait for the decision.
Ask a question

Evidence to prepare

  • Details of the person you care for.
  • Benefit information if applicable.
  • Care arrangements information.
  • Identification documents.

Assessment tips

  • Details of the person you care for.
  • Benefit information if applicable.
  • Care arrangements information.
  • Identification documents.
Tip
Use real examples from daily life — what happens on difficult days, not only on good days.

Common mistakes

  • Not applying because you do not receive Carer’s Allowance.
  • Underestimating caring hours.
  • Not including full care details.

If you’re refused

  • You can reapply if circumstances change.
  • You can provide additional information.
  • You can seek support from Citizens Advice.
Deadlines matter
Challenges and appeals often have strict time limits — get advice as early as possible.

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