benefits advice - dla/carer's allowance

Everyday living
1

Hi Everyone

I wonder if someone out there can answer this question for me.

If you are receiving carer’s allowance for caring for a family member can you then also claim dla for yourself??

Thanks

Ann Marie

2

Hi, yes I think you can.

I will tell someone, who I think does that, to read your post.

luv Pollx

3

Hi

Thanks Poll,

I don’t claim any benefits at the moment as I am working but I am looking to reduce my hours which would put me in the range to claim the carer’s allowance for caring for my autistic son. I was then hoping to claim dla too after my dx in October but don’t want to go through the whole claim process to find that I’m not eligible if I’m also claiming carer’s allowance.

Really hoping this is possible as I’d really like to reduce my hours but it’s not really financially viable for us otherwise.

Ann Marie XXX

4

Yes Ann Marie, I do as I suffer ms and osteoporosis, yet am carer for my son who has learning difficulties. He gets middle rate care, hence it opens doors for other things too, like extra payments if your on income support ‘disabled premium’ and also help with council tax benefit, although I believe that is changing this coming April. You will also get a stamp paid for each week you care. I believe there is an earnings limit, because government think carers can work! Not in this house they cant.

Get your application in because if your caring for someone it doesnt necessarily mean you dont need care yourself.

Ive been getting it for 30 years now, so apply.

bren

x

5

A good, clear reply bren. Cheers.

luv Pollx

6

Hi Ann Marie

It is possible for two people to each claim DLA and then claim carer’s allowance to look after the other if those care needs differ.
For example if one has mental health problems and the other physical difficulties. The person with mental health problems could help the physically disabled one whilst that person could offer encouragement and support.

Bren has physical problems connected with MS but is able to offer support to her son who has learning difficulties. (He doesn’t claim carer’s allowance to look after Bren but probably could)

If you apply for DLA based on physical difficulties you might be on a sticky wicket if your carer’s allowance is to help someone who has similar care needs but this does not seem to be the case with you. I would think it was perfectly OK Don’t forget that you can claim DLA even if you work so it might be a good idea to get that application started no matter what else you decide to do

Jane