If you’re caring for someone and not earning enough to qualify for National Insurance contributions, Carer’s Credit could help protect your State Pension. But what exactly is it, how does it work, and how is it different from Carer’s Allowance? We’ve rounded up the most popular FAQs to make things easier for you.
What is Carer’s Credit, and how does it work?
Carer’s Credit is a National Insurance (NI) credit that helps unpaid carers fill gaps in their NI record. If you’re looking after someone for at least 20 hours a week but don’t qualify for Carer’s Allowance, this credit helps ensure those caring years still count toward your State Pension.
It’s especially useful for those providing care part-time, balancing care with other responsibilities, or not receiving benefits for their role.
How much money do you get for Carer’s Credit?
Carer’s Credit itself doesn’t provide a direct cash payment. Instead, its value lies in protecting your future pension by ensuring your NI contributions are counted during the time you’re caring. Over time, this can make a significant difference in your pension amount when you reach retirement age.
What is the difference between Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Credit?
- Carer’s Allowance is a weekly benefit (£81.90 in 2025/26) for people caring for someone 35 hours or more per week and meeting income and eligibility criteria.
- Carer’s Credit is a National Insurance credit, not a cash payment, for those caring 20 hours or more a week who don’t qualify for Carer’s Allowance.
You can’t receive both at the same time, but if you’re not eligible for Carer’s Allowance, you may still qualify for Carer’s Credit.
What can carers get for free?
Carers in the UK may be eligible for a number of free or discounted services, including:
- Free prescriptions (if you or the person you care for receive certain benefits)
- Discounted travel schemes, such as railcards or local transport
- Free flu jabs
- Access to carer support groups and training courses
- Discounts via schemes like Discounts for Carers, which include savings on food, travel, shopping, and more
Can I claim Carer’s Credit and Universal Credit?
Yes, you can claim Carer’s Credit while receiving Universal Credit. In fact, Universal Credit includes a carer element if you’re providing care for at least 35 hours per week, and this won’t stop you from receiving Carer’s Credit if you meet the criteria.
How far can Carer’s Credit be backdated?
You can usually backdate your Carer’s Credit claim by up to one year. If you’ve been providing care but didn’t realise you were eligible, it’s worth applying and requesting backdating within that time frame.
Can two people claim Carer’s Credit for the same person?
No, only one person can claim Carer’s Credit for caring for the same person at any one time. If multiple people are providing care, the one who meets the eligibility (20+ hours per week) and is not receiving Carer’s Allowance would typically be the person to claim.
Need more support?
Visit GOV.UK – Carer’s Credit to apply or get official guidance.
And don’t forget—at Discounts for Carers, we’re here to help support unpaid carers across the UK with exclusive savings, tools, and updates to help make caring a little easier 💙
Carers Allowance | FAQs Answered
Carer’s Allowance is a UK benefit for people who spend a significant amount of time looking after someone with a disability or illness. If you’re providing regular care, you may be eligible for financial support.
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