This summer, thousands of unpaid carers in Scotland will get a special extra payment worth over £293.
Around 90,000 people who are receiving either Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance will automatically receive this one-off amount between 18 and 19 June.
This extra support, called the Carer’s Allowance Supplement, is part of a Scottish Government benefit designed to help unpaid carers. Let’s understand how it works and who gets it.
What Is the Carer’s Allowance Supplement?
The Carer’s Allowance Supplement is an additional payment given to people who receive Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance in Scotland.
It’s paid twice a year and adds up to around £587 annually. This means carers get two payments of about £293.50 each.
The payment is automatic—you don’t have to apply for it. If you’re eligible and live in Scotland, the money will go directly into your account.
Who Can Get the Payment?
To receive this money, you must:
- Live in Scotland
- Be receiving Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance on the specific qualifying dates
- Be aged 16 or older
- Provide care for at least 35 hours a week
- Care for someone who receives certain disability benefits
- Earn £196 a week or less (or £10,912 a year)
If you qualify, the payment will be made to you automatically without needing to fill out any forms.
What If You Have an Underlying Entitlement?
Some people may qualify for Carer’s Allowance but don’t receive payments because they’re getting another benefit like State Pension or Employment and Support Allowance that pays more. This is called an underlying entitlement.
Unfortunately, if you have only an underlying entitlement and don’t actually get the Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance, you won’t be eligible for the Carer’s Allowance Supplement.
When Will You Get the Payment?
This summer’s Carer’s Allowance Supplement will be paid between 18 and 19 June 2025. If you’re eligible and don’t receive the payment or a letter by 30 June, you should call Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222 to check.
What to Do to Get It?
Nothing at all! As long as you are eligible, the payment will come directly to you. Just make sure your details are up to date with Social Security Scotland.
Unpaid carers in Scotland do a vital job, and the Carer’s Allowance Supplement is a small way to recognise that effort. With two payments a year, it gives a bit of extra financial support for those caring for a loved one full-time.
If you think you’re eligible and haven’t heard anything by the end of June, don’t hesitate to contact the support line.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the £293 Carer’s Allowance Supplement in Scotland?
To get the £293 payment, you must live in Scotland, be aged 16 or over, provide at least 35 hours of care per week, and receive Carer Support Payment or Carer’s Allowance on the qualifying dates.
Do I need to apply for the Carer’s Allowance Supplement?
No, the payment is automatic for those eligible. If you qualify, you do not need to apply.
What is an underlying entitlement and does it qualify me?
An underlying entitlement means you qualify for Carer’s Allowance but are not paid it because you receive a higher benefit. Unfortunately, this does not make you eligible for the supplement.
What should I do if I haven’t received the payment by 30 June?
If you don’t receive your payment or a letter by 30 June, call Social Security Scotland for free on 0800 182 2222.
