Scottish Carer Supplement
Scottish Carer Supplement replaces Carer's Allowance Supplement from 15 March 2026 in Scotland. This is an extra payment for unpaid carers who are eligible. The payment is spread throughout the year and is worth £11.70 per week 2026/27 (which works out as the same as the former overall amount of Carer's Allowance Supplement).
Who is eligible?
Scottish Carer Supplement is extra money that might be available for you if you are an unpaid carer and live in Scotland. Other than living in Scotland, one of the key requirements is that you receive Carer Support Payment.
If you were receiving Carer Support Payment on 15 March 2026, you do not need to apply.
How much is it?
For every week that you qualify for Carer Support Payment, you receive an additional £11.70 a week (26/27).
When will I receive my Scottish Carer Supplement?
This will be paid weekly alongside Carer Support Payment rather than in two lump sums per year (which was how Carer's Allowance Supplement was formerly paid).
How do I claim Scottish Carer Supplement?
You do not need to do anything. As long as you are living in Scotland and receiving Carer Support Payment on the 15 March 2026, you will receive the payment automatically. Social Security Scotland will send you a letter in March confirming that this is the case. You may need to budget to take into account the fact that you will no longer receive the two lump sums of Carers Allowance Supplement.
What if I am still receiving Carer's Allowance?
A small number of people in Scotland may still be receiving Carer's Allowance. If this is your situation, you will not miss out but will continue to receive the Carer's Allowance Supplement. This will be the equivalent amount and you do not need to apply. This will be issued as two payments of £304.65 (in June and December).
Impact on other benefits
Scottish Carer Supplement will not affect other benefits such as housing benefit, income support, Universal Credit or council tax reduction. You do not need to tell anyone about this payment for benefit purposes and it will not affect the amount of any other benefit you receive.
Scottish Carer Supplement will also not be taken into account in income assessments for college student support.
Is Scottish Carer Supplement taxable?
Yes. Scottish Carer Supplement is taxable. You will need to notify HMRC if you receive Scottish Carer Supplement.
More information
You can find out more on this page: Scottish Carer Supplement - mygov.scot
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