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Carers Allowance and Income Support ?

I'm currently a single parent of 2 children (aged 4 and 2). My youngest has multiple disabilities and receives the middle rate care component of DLA. I get carers allowance for this reason, I also get income support/tax credit because I am a single parent.
I met someone some time ago and I want to know what would happen if we were to become a family. Obviously this is probably a couple of years away but it did make me think what position I'd be in financially if it ever did happen.
While he does earn about £1000pm this is not enough to pay rent/council tax/bills/debts/live for 2 adults and 2 children. I was wondering would I be able to claim income support because I'm a carer ? I'm actually not able to work because I look after my daughter 24/7 so is there anything that would help me ? HB ? I have to make sure I have something coming in as I've been doing my best to become debt free the last couple of years and slowly I'm getting there and I don't want to compromise that or worry that I won't be able to pay my rent.
Thanks :)

Comments

  • kingfisherblue
    kingfisherblue Posts: 9,203 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper Xmas Saver!
    You would lose your income support if you become a family - your partner will be expected to provide for you. You will keep your CA as long as it is still a valid claim.

    As a family, you might be able to get some housing benefit, council tax benefit, working tax credit. Your child tax credit should change from a single claim to a joint claim as it is based on household income.

    Benefits don't take into account debt payments. You might want to post a statement of affairs on the debtfree wannabe board for help (there's a sticky at the top of the board).
  • mikey_bach
    mikey_bach Posts: 912 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 500 Posts Combo Breaker
    edited 2 August 2012 at 1:07PM
    If your partner and you move in together your claim to I.S will cease.
    By the sounds of it he works over 24 hours a week so this in itself will nil the claim.
    You will keep child benefit and Carers Allowance and your childs DLA.
    As a couple you maybe able to claim working tax credits, child tax credits and maybe Income Based Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit...
    Put your figures in here
    http://www.turn2us.org.uk/benefits_search.aspx
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