The Carer's Support Grant is paid once a year and the carer decides how to use it. Many carers use it towards a break, equipment or extra help.
The amount and the qualifying date are set officially each year, so check the current position rather than relying on what applied previously.
Who it's generally for
People providing full-time care on the qualifying date each year.
What it provides
- A single annual payment per person being cared for
- No restriction on how the carer uses it
The eligibility and assessment caveat
Some carers receive it automatically with an existing carer's payment; others must apply. The qualifying date, amount and application window are set officially and change — check the current rules.
What to do next
- Check whether the carer needs to apply or will receive it automatically
- Note the annual qualifying date and closing date for applications
Documents and information worth preparing
- The carer's PPS number
- Details of the person being cared for
Questions worth asking
- Do we need to apply this year, or is it automatic?
- Can it be paid for more than one person being cared for?
Official sources
We summarise. The organisations below are the authority on current rules, rates and thresholds.
- Department of Social Protection — Carer's payments and supports
Open the official source - Citizens Information Board — Citizens Information — older people and carers
Open the official source