You may be eligible for Carer's Allowance or a Carer Support Payment in Scotland but not get it paid to you because you have another benefit paid at a higher amount. This is due to the rules on overlapping benefits. If you claim Carer’s Allowance/Carer Support Payment (as opposed to being eligible but not receiving any money) then the amount you receive is included as income when your entitlement to benefits is calculated.

We will estimate a weekly award but please check this against the amount you actually receive. If you get another 'overlapping' benefit make sure that you only enter the amount you receive from Carer’s Allowance/Carer Support Payment.

Whether or not you actually recieve Carer’s Allowance/Carer Support Payment, if you are eligible for Carer's Allowance/Carer Support Payment (having claimed it) then you are entitled to a carer’s premium in means-tested benefits (a premium is extra money added to a means-tested benefit). However, if you are caring for a disabled adult, a claim for Carer's Allowance/Carer Support Payment can lead to a reduction in any means-tested benefits they get. The rules are complicated so get further advice. For more information see disability premiums in benefits.

Due the complexities of this benefit, and the potential for it to have a detrimental effect on the benefit of the cared for person, we strongly advise you to seek further advice from a recognised adviser before claiming Carer's Allowance/Carer Support Payment. Please contact a local advice agency.

For information on whether you may be able to claim see eligibility rules for Carer’s Allowance/Carer Support Payment.