More help for carers
If you've been looking after someone throughout any of the last three years, you may be eligible for additional State Pension if you have:
- not worked
- earned low wages
If you are entitled to Carer’s Allowance, Income Support as a carer or Child Benefit for a child under six, you don’t need to do anything different and will build up State Second Pension (an additional State Pension).
If not, you may need to start building up your State Second Pension by applying for Home Responsibilities Protection.
If you have been caring for a sick or disabled person full time without receiving Income Support as a carer or Carer’s Allowance, you will need to claim Home Responsibilities Protection to get State Second Pension.
If you looked after someone throughout the 2004/2005 tax year, the latest date you can apply for Home Responsibilities Protection is 5 April 2008.
What do you need to do?
Our leaflet, about State Pensions, will tell you about:
- State Second Pension
- the entitlement conditions
- what you need to do
Read or print a copy of our leaflet about State Pensions
Or you can ring 0845 7 31 32 33 for a copy.