Carers Allowance at 67 years old

[Marcel-wave]

Hi am I able to claim Carers Allowance for my 17 year old Autistic grandson please .

[Magpuss]

Not if you're getting a state pension but you can still claim as you may qualify for a carers premium. It's less than the carers allowance and you have to provide at least 35 hours care a week - that includes non physical care as well, so filling in forms, phone calls made on his behalf - basically anything that you wouldn't have to do if you weren't caring for him, it all counts.

[Magpuss in reply to Magpuss]

Sorry, I should have added, your grandson will have to have his needs assessed if this hasn't already been done.

[Hidden]

If your grandson is getting pip you can get carers for him .. But is means tested.

[zube-UK in reply to Hidden]

Yes it's definitely mean..

[Magpuss in reply to zube-UK]

My son was sixteen when the carers allowance was first introduced, and there was no means test for it - I applied for it, my son was assessed and it was awarded on the basis of his needs. I ceased to receive the allowance when I started getting my state pension but I still get the carers premium because I'm still my sons carer. It's awarded to help cover the costs of caring for a person whose disability doesn't allow them to live independently. As a long term carer (56 yrs) the carers premium is intended to help to make up for the loss of earnings and other benefits such as a work related pension, during my working life.

[Marcel-wave]

Thank you all for helpful replies .