How to Change Carer’s Allowance Over to Someone Else?

Navigating the UK benefits system can be complex, especially when personal circumstances change. One common question is whether Carer’s Allowance can be transferred from one person to another.

The short answer is: no, it cannot be directly transferred. However, there is a defined process for stopping an existing claim and having a new carer apply.

This guide outlines everything you need to know about how to change Carer’s Allowance over to someone else, including when and why it might be necessary, what steps to take, common pitfalls, and how to avoid disruptions to financial support.

Why Might Someone Need to Change the Person Claiming Carer’s Allowance?

Changes in life circumstances often trigger the need to update benefit claims. Carer’s Allowance, a payment for those who provide at least 35 hours of care per week, is no exception. Below are typical scenarios where switching the designated carer becomes relevant:

• A carer is no longer able to provide care due to health issues, employment changes, or relocation.
• A different family member starts taking on more care responsibilities.
• The cared-for person’s condition changes, resulting in adjustments to care arrangements.
• Shared caring responsibilities create a need to assign a primary carer for benefit purposes.

It is important to remember that only one person can claim Carer’s Allowance for the same care recipient at any one time. Any changes must be communicated promptly to prevent complications.

Is It Possible to Transfer Carer’s Allowance to Another Person?

This is a common misconception. Carer’s Allowance cannot be “transferred” in the traditional sense. The current claim must be formally ended, and a new application must be submitted by the new carer.

This process ensures that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can reassess eligibility based on updated circumstances. Without ending the existing claim first, any new application may be rejected, or overpayments could be issued to the outgoing carer, leading to repayment demands.

Real-life Example:

Laura had been receiving Carer’s Allowance while caring for her elderly mother. After starting a new full-time job, she could no longer meet the 35-hour care requirement. Her sister, who had taken over the caring duties, needed to apply for Carer’s Allowance herself. Laura contacted the Carer’s Allowance Unit to end her claim, allowing her sister to begin the process anew.

This example illustrates the importance of officially closing the initial claim before the new carer can apply.

How to Change Carer’s Allowance Over to Someone Else?

The process of changing the person who receives Carer’s Allowance follows a step-by-step approach. Both the current carer and the new carer play active roles in ensuring a smooth transition.

Step 1: Ending the Current Claim

The first step involves the current carer informing the DWP that they are no longer providing care. This can be done:

• Online via the GOV.UK website (using the “report a change in circumstances” tool).
• By phone through the Carer’s Allowance Unit.

It’s important to provide:

• Your National Insurance number
• The date when you stopped caring
• The reason for the change

It’s critical to do this as soon as the care ends. Continuing to receive payments without providing care can lead to overpayments that must be repaid.

Step 2: New Carer Applies

Once the previous claim is closed, the new carer can begin the application process. They must meet all eligibility requirements, such as:

• Caring for 35 or more hours per week
• Earning £151 or less per week after deductions
• Not being in full-time education

The application can be submitted:

• Online through GOV.UK
• By phone, requesting a paper claim form

The new applicant will need personal details, information about the cared-for person, National Insurance numbers, and bank details.

Step 3: Await Decision

Once the application is submitted, the DWP will assess the claim and notify the applicant of the outcome. Payments will begin if the claim is approved. Any delays may result in a gap in financial support.

Applicants should allow up to 6 weeks for a response, though this can vary depending on caseloads.

What Information and Documents Are Required During the Process?

Accurate and complete information is essential to avoid delays or rejections. Below is a table outlining what each party needs to provide:

Required Information for Each Party:

Role	Required Information
Outgoing Carer	National Insurance Number, date care ended, contact info
New Carer	National Insurance Number, details of the cared-for person, hours of care provided, employment details
Both Parties	Bank account details for payment, any changes to housing or benefits

Providing accurate information upfront reduces the likelihood of administrative errors and ensures faster processing by the DWP.

How Long Does It Take to Process a New Carer’s Allowance Application?

The timeframe for processing changes can vary depending on the DWP’s workload and the complexity of your case.

On average:

• Ending a claim can take 1 to 2 weeks, though payments usually stop from the date reported.
• New applications may take 3 to 6 weeks to process.

This delay means that families should plan ahead to avoid financial shortfalls during the transition.

Real-life Example:

Mark, a full-time carer for his brother, had to stop due to health reasons. He reported the change, and their cousin applied immediately. Due to a minor error in the application form, the approval took 7 weeks. During this time, no Carer’s Allowance was paid, and the family had to adjust their budget.

This highlights the importance of submitting an error-free application and reporting changes promptly.

What Common Problems Occur When Changing Carer’s Allowance Claims?

Switching carers on a Carer’s Allowance claim can be straightforward, but only if done correctly. Several issues frequently arise:

• Overlapping claims: If two people attempt to claim for the same individual, the DWP may reject both or delay the application.
• Overpayments: If the outgoing carer continues to receive payments after stopping care, they may be required to repay the excess.
• Missing documents: Delays often happen when key information, such as care hours or bank details, are omitted.
• Benefit complications: Ending a Carer’s Allowance claim may unintentionally affect other benefits like Universal Credit or Council Tax Reduction.

Proper communication and planning can significantly reduce the likelihood of these complications.

What Can Be Done If the New Claim Is Rejected or Delayed?

If a new claim is rejected or delayed, there are several steps you can take to resolve the issue. The first and most important action is to request a mandatory reconsideration, as this allows the DWP to review the decision internally and correct any mistakes.

You should also review your eligibility to ensure everything meets the requirements, such as:

• Care hours
• Earnings
• Overlapping benefit conditions

If you are still unsure, contacting welfare support services can be extremely helpful because they can identify hidden issues and guide you through the next steps.

It is equally important to keep all documentation, including application receipts, letters, and communication records, as these may be required later. While delays are frustrating, persistence, accurate information, and consistent follow-up usually help move the claim forward.

How Can You Prevent Disruption to Benefits During the Switch?

Financial disruption during a changeover can be stressful. Fortunately, some simple practices can help avoid unnecessary issues:

• Plan timing: Try to align the end of one claim and the start of the next to avoid gaps.
• Report quickly: Tell the DWP about any change immediately.
• Inform others: Update Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, or Council Tax Reduction if affected.
• Check backdating: You may qualify for up to three months of backdated payments.

Preventative Checklist for Smooth Transition:

Task	Recommended Action
Ending the old claim	Contact Carer’s Allowance Unit immediately
Starting the new application	Submit online with full documentation
Checking for delays	Follow up after 3–4 weeks if no response
Reporting to other departments	Notify local council and benefit offices

These steps help protect both carers and the person being cared for from financial disruption.

Are There Alternative Benefits or Support Options for Carers?

In cases where a carer cannot receive Carer’s Allowance, perhaps due to earnings or educational commitments, other forms of support may be available.

These include:

• Carer Element of Universal Credit: Available to claimants who meet the care requirement but do not qualify for Carer’s Allowance.
• Attendance Allowance (for the cared-for person): This benefit can continue even if a new carer hasn’t yet been approved.
• Local council support: Many councils offer additional carer support, including respite care or financial grants.
• Income Support (if applicable): May apply depending on the carer’s overall financial situation.

Exploring these options can provide a safety net during transitional periods or ineligibility.

What Happens If the Cared-For Person’s Circumstances Change?

Changes in the health or living situation of the person being cared for can impact a carer’s eligibility. For instance:

• If the person enters a hospital or care home for more than four weeks, Carer’s Allowance may be paused or stopped.
• If the person passes away, the carer must inform the DWP immediately to stop payments and avoid overpayment.

Carers should keep a close eye on such changes and act promptly to notify relevant authorities.

Conclusion

Changing the carer on a Carer’s Allowance claim isn’t a direct transfer, it’s a structured process that requires ending the previous claim and starting a new one.

While the system may seem complex, following the correct steps, understanding eligibility, and preparing ahead can help ensure a smooth transition.

By managing the timing well and communicating clearly with the DWP and other benefit agencies, families can protect their financial stability and continue to support loved ones effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pause my Carer’s Allowance and restart it later?

Yes, but only under certain conditions such as hospital stays. You must inform the DWP, and payments may resume once care duties continue.

What should I do if two carers want to claim for the same person?

Only one person can claim Carer’s Allowance. If an agreement can’t be reached, the DWP will decide who provides the majority of care.

Will the cared-for person lose any benefits if I stop being their carer?

They may lose associated benefits like the Severe Disability Premium. It’s important to reassess their entitlements after any change.

Can I apply for Carer’s Allowance if I’m working part-time?

Yes, as long as your net earnings are £151 or less per week and you meet the care requirement.

Do I need the care recipient’s permission to claim Carer’s Allowance?

You must have their details and often their consent, especially if applying on their behalf.

Can a student or someone under 18 claim Carer’s Allowance?

No, you must be at least 16 years old and not in full-time education.

Will I receive backdated payments after switching carers?

Possibly, if the eligibility conditions were met and the claim is submitted within three months of the care starting.