£270.50 extra cash for carers

Carer’s Allowance Supplement is being paid to carers across Scotland today, Friday 8 December.

It is an extra payment of £270.50, paid through Social Security Scotland, to recognise the important contribution of unpaid carers in Scotland.

Payments are made twice a year to eligible carers already getting Carer’s Allowance from the Department for Work and Pensions on a certain qualifying date. For the December supplement, this was 9 October.

People do not need to apply separately for the supplement as it is paid automatically. Social Security Scotland will write to people in advance so they know to expect a payment.

The last official statistics published on Carers Allowance Supplement in August 2023 showed that 84,325 carers received the payment in June 2023.

Our newest benefit is Carer Support Payment, which replaces Carer’s Allowance in Scotland, is currently being piloted in Dundee, Perth and Kinross, and the Western Isles. People getting Carer Support Payment, will still continue to get the Carer’s Allowance Supplement.

Paul Traynor, Head of External Affairs (Scotland) at Carers Trust Scotland, commented:

“This extra money will be welcomed by many unpaid carers in Scotland, especially at this time of year with Christmas coming up and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. I know that this payment will make a big difference to many unpaid carers while they continue to provide vital caring roles to their friends and family.”

People should check if they received the payment and get in touch with us if they have not received the payment by Monday 18 December by calling us free on 0800 182 2222.

The next eligibility date to get an automatic Carer’s Allowance Supplement will be April 2024. More details on eligibility and payment dates will be announced later on next year.

To find out more information people can visit mygov.scot/carers-allowance-supplement

Information on other support for carers is available at mygov.scot/help-if-youre-a-carer