Change of Circumstances

Just_Dave

Would claiming Carer's Allowance for someone, whilst currently getting ESA (wrag) be deemed a "Change of Circumstances " & hence prompt a move to Universal Credit?

(Not living with person needing care- they get full PIP)

poppy12345

Just_Dave wrote: »

Would claiming Carer's Allowance for someone, whilst currently getting ESA (wrag) be deemed a "Change of Circumstances " & hence prompt a move to Universal Credit?

(Not living with person needing care- they get full PIP)

No. You do need to check that the person you're thinking of claiming carers allowance for isn't claiming Severe disability premium before claiming carers allowance. If they are then claiming this will stop the SDP.

calcotti

Note also that the Carer’s Allowance £66.15/week would be taken into account as income when calculating the income based ESA payable but a carer premium of £36.85 will be added to the maximum entitlement. Overall there will a gain of £36.85/week.

If the ESA is only contribution based then Carer’s Allowance will not be paid.

If the person being cared for lives alone and gets a means tested benefit other than Universal Credit then it is likely they are entitled to a Severe Disability Premium in that benefit which is worth more. It is very important therefore, as poppy has said, to fully understand the benefit position of the person being cared for as well as the carer.

Just_Dave

Just to answer the queries. Thanks for the quick responses. Person on PIP lives alone but does not get means tested benefits - only "new style" contribution ESA