Universal Credit carer amount

An extra Universal Credit amount if you provide care for a severely disabled person.

What you get

An extra £209.34 a month on Universal Credit if you qualify for the carer amount, from 6 April 2026 (2026 to 2027 rates). You cannot get both the LCWRA (or LCW) amount and the carer amount for the same person — you get the higher of the two. As of 6 April 2026, from the official DWP rates and GOV.UK UC disability guidance.

Who can get it

You (or your partner on a joint claim) must be caring for a severely disabled person who gets a qualifying disability benefit, usually for at least 35 hours a week. You do not have to get Carer’s Allowance. Universal Credit is means-tested.

Related entitlements

• Carer's Allowance
• Carer Support Payment
• Benefit cap exemption because of a disability or caring award

Official sources we checked

• https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/what-youll-get
• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition-quick-guide/universal-credit-if-you-have-a-disability-or-health-condition
• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/benefit-and-pension-rates-2026-to-2027/proposed-benefit-and-pension-rates-2026-to-2027

Last checked 10 November 2026. This page is information, not an eligibility decision or legal advice. Always confirm the current rules on the official source before you apply.