answer text |
<p>It is a basic principle of the social security system that only one benefit at
a time can be paid for the same purpose. Both Carer’s Allowance and State Pension
are designed to provide a degree of replacement for income lost or foregone; Carer’s
Allowance where the duties of caring for a severely disabled person prevent the prospect
of full-time work and the earnings it would yield; and State Pension to provide a
replacement income in retirement.</p><p> </p><p>The overlapping benefits rules, which
prevent both benefits being paid, were established to reflect the general principle
that flat-rate benefits designed to help with income maintenance e.g. Carer’s Allowance
and State Pension, should not be added together and paid in full, even though a person
may qualify for both.</p><p> </p><p>Where Carer’s Allowance cannot be paid, the person
will keep underlying entitlement to the benefit, which means if they are on a low
income, they may be entitled to any advantages arising from that, e.g. the additional
amount for carers in Pension Credit, worth up to £36.00 a week and, in some cases,
Housing Benefit.</p>
|
|