Universal Credit deducts my mum’s Carer’s Allowance pound for pound – is there a better option?
My mum is a full-time carer for my adult brother, who has Down syndrome. She receives Universal Credit and Carer’s Allowance.
I’ve spoken to Universal Credit and they told me that her Carer’s Allowance is deducted from her Universal Credit pound for pound, so she doesn’t actually receive any extra money from claiming Carer’s Allowance itself.
I’m just trying to understand whether this is the correct setup or whether there is another benefit or entitlement that would be more suitable for her circumstances.
We’re also currently looking into a Severe Mental Impairment Council Tax discount for my brother, and Citizens Advice has been recommended to us to discuss a Debt Relief Order, but my main question is about the benefits.
Is it normal for Carer’s Allowance to be deducted pound for pound from Universal Credit? Should my mum still be receiving a carer element within Universal Credit, or is there another benefit she should be claiming instead? I just want to make sure she’s receiving everything she’s entitled to as a full-time carer.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.