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Fostering

DLA and Carers Allowance

10 replies

Eggsbutnobacon · 02/01/2016 19:10

The little boy I am caring for long term has just been awarded the middle rate DLA. The La are quite happy for me to spend this on what I see fit, even for things which enhance the whole family's life such as meals out , soft play etc when things are reaching boiling point with him and his brother in the house. This is especially helpful in the winter months when we can't get out to the parks and beaches etc.

I have been made aware that this award would now enable me to claim carers allowance. Would this be morally right when I am already been paid to look after him? Do any other carers do this and do you need to inform your sw that you are claiming?

Also it states that you need to be earning less than £110 per week. How would this be worked out when I am self employed. Do they go on what my tax return states which is a profit annually .

I am very wary of making claims ever since at a meeting a Camhs professional threw up her hands in horror at the mere suggestion that we should claim DLA for our lo stating that foster carers got paid enough and I needn't think she was going to sign any forms for me! Luckily the sw was on our side hence we are now in receipt of the DLA!
Any feedback would be appreciated.

OP posts:

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gamerchick · 02/01/2016 19:13

Can you maybe ring the carers department. They are really lovely and helpful? I think I would ask if there was any point in applying.

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bishboschone · 02/01/2016 19:16

I get dla for my son , I also get carers allowance . I'm entitled to it .. Just apply on line and tell the truth . They will tell you if you are entitled or not .

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AndNowItsSeven · 02/01/2016 19:20

If your earnings vary, your average earnings are calculated. If your earnings vary over a recognisable cycle (e.g. over a school year or a regular shift pattern) an average is taken over that cycle. Otherwise an average is taken over 5 weeks or over any other period that gives a more accurate assessment of your average earnings.

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AndNowItsSeven · 02/01/2016 19:21

Sorry copies for online carers allowance information leaflet.

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AndNowItsSeven · 02/01/2016 19:21

Ahh copied from!

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AndNowItsSeven · 02/01/2016 19:23

Also your earnings from fostering are disregarded for carers allowance all together.
www.fostering.net/all-about-fostering/foster-carers/finances/benefits#.VogjY3ggHCQ

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Eggsbutnobacon · 02/01/2016 20:23

Thanks all for the above. Form now completed and submitted!
The only think I was unsure of is that it asks me to now send in my completed accounts as a self employed person. Does this mean my tax return and is this necessary when I am claiming as a foster carer and therefore earnings should be disregarded?

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NeuNewNouveau · 02/01/2016 20:40

Just a note that I am an accountant and do tax returns for foster carers, they also claim carer's allowance for their fostered kids. Be aware that carer's allowance is taxable though so needs to be put on your tax return.

If they wanted accounts, your tax return would do. Depending on whether you use the special rules for foster carers it will either show your turnover after allowances as your profit or your normal profit. Either would be enough for them.

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gamerchick · 02/01/2016 20:57

Good luck OP.

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Eggsbutnobacon · 02/01/2016 21:39

Neu. I use the special rules for foster carers so my profit for the last tax year was £1880 therefore even if foster carers earnings were to be taken into account that would work out at far less than the maximum £110 pw allowed.
Thanks for your advice all. Looking forward to schools back on Monday!