Carer's Credit

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How to claim

Before you start

You do not need to apply for Carer’s Credit if you:

  • get Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment - you’ll automatically get credits
  • get Child Benefit for a child under the age of 12 - you’ll automatically get credits
  • are a foster carer - you can apply for National Insurance credits instead

Apply using a form

Download the Carer’s Credit claim form.

The form includes a Care Certificate - ask a health or social care professional to sign it for you.

You can also get the form by calling the Carer’s Allowance Unit.

Carer’s Allowance Unit
Telephone: 0800 731 0297
Textphone: 0800 731 0317
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 731 0297
British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer - find out how to use the service on mobile or tablet
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Find out about call charges

Alternative formats

Call the Carer’s Allowance Unit to ask for alternative formats, such as braille, large print or audio CD.

Where to send your form

Freepost DWP Carers Allowance Unit

Do not write anything except the freepost address on the envelope. You do not need a postcode or a stamp.

If you disagree with a decision

You can challenge a decision about your claim. This is called asking for mandatory reconsideration.