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Back dated carers allowance

10 replies

ForLoudUmberScroller · 12/01/2026 19:55

I don’t know what to do, I’ve just been paid over £7000 carers allowance. I’m on UC I know I need to pay it back. Do I pay it back whilst i still have it or should I use it as a non interest loan?
I have 4 children . 16,14,12, 9. A self employed partner . I have a few debt which would be lovely to clear off . And would be nice to treat the children as normally we would be living on a tight budget. The kids are fed healthy have clothes and roof over their heads. I’m not really sure what I’m asking tbh . I just want other people’s thoughts. If I kept the money I would use it for mini breaks and days out with the kids and home improvements, decorating their bedrooms boarding the loft , new carpet on the stairs . And generally making like nicer. My partner would just want to spend it on useless things (he gambles) or designer clothes 🙄 where as I’m more thrifty as love a good charity shop rummage with my kids, I’m very grateful that they are all ok with second hand.

OP posts:
RudolphTheReindeer · 12/01/2026 19:58

Why do you need to pay it back?

KarenWheeler · 12/01/2026 19:58

Backdated benefits are disregarded as capital for 52 weeks. Even then you can have up to £16000 in savings before your UC stops.

Nimblethimble · 12/01/2026 20:32

If you think they are going to ask for it back, put it into another account so you can pay it back if needed.

I would not let someone with a gambling problem anywhere near it.

MotorbikeStuntRider · 12/01/2026 20:35

It won't count as capital for 52 weeks but it will have created a UC overpayment as Carers is deducted £ for £ from UC.

Were you registered with UC as a carer?

ForLoudUmberScroller · 12/01/2026 20:38

Yes registered with UC as a carer so also get the carers element. I’m not letting my partner touch it tbh . As bad as that sounds.

OP posts:
PaterPower · 14/01/2026 13:02

In those circumstances, it’s not bad (to not let your partner touch it) at all.

hohahagogo · 14/01/2026 13:10

Do pay off debts because that will make life better in the long run

ForLoudUmberScroller · 14/01/2026 16:23

Thank you everyone I think I’ll buy bits to better the house and garden pay the bills that have interest and payback a lump sum . Then set a d/d debit for the rest. Oh and book a small break with the kids 🙂

OP posts:
MotorbikeStuntRider · 14/01/2026 16:26

Have you informed UC of the payment? They may decide how much you need to pay back monthly to recoup the over payment.

ForLoudUmberScroller · 14/01/2026 16:33

Yes I have informed them

OP posts:
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