UK DWP raises earnings threshold, allowing 60,000 more carers to claim benefit

The Department for Work and Pensions announced that the earnings limit for Carer's Allowance has been increased from £196 to £204 per week. Sir Stephen Timms, the DWP minister, said the change will enable an additional 60,000 unpaid carers to qualify for the benefit, which pays up to £340 a month (£86.45 a week). He emphasized the government's aim to "do a better job" for carers and noted that Carer's Allowance is one of several supports, alongside Universal Credit, Pension Credit, council‑tax reductions and local grants.

The revision applies to income from employment and self‑employment after tax and National Insurance, while certain sources such as occupational pensions and small boarder income are excluded from the threshold.