For unpaid carers in Scotland, financial recognition is coming twice a year in the form of the Carer’s Allowance Supplement (CAS). Confirmed by the DWP and Social Security Scotland, the July 2025 payment of £288.60 will be deposited automatically on Friday, July 12, 2025.
This supplement is designed to support those providing at least 35 hours of unpaid care per week and already receiving Carer’s Allowance or the new Carer Support Payment.
Understanding the Carer’s Allowance Supplement
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount (2025) | £288.60 per 6-month period |
| Payment Dates | July 12, 2025; December 2025 |
| Eligibility Date | Must receive Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment on 14 April 2025 |
| Who Pays | DWP / Social Security Scotland |
| Application Required? | No — automatic payment |
This supplement is in addition to regular Carer’s Allowance, is tax-free, and does not affect other benefits such as Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.
Who Qualifies?
You will receive the supplement if all of the following apply:
- Resident in Scotland or have a substantial connection
- Receive Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment on 14 April 2025
- Provide at least 35 hours of unpaid care per week
Even if you’re paid Carer Support Payment instead of Carer’s Allowance, you still qualify.
How the Process Works
- Eligibility is assessed automatically on two dates each year: 14 April and 13 October.
- If eligible, you’ll receive £288.60 in July (for April) and £288.60 in December (for October).
- The July 12, 2025 payment is scheduled to appear in your bank account—no action required.
Why the Supplement Matters
Providing unpaid care is physically, emotionally, and financially demanding. The supplement:
- Acknowledges your sacrifice and time commitment
- Eases financial strain by helping cover living costs, travel, or care expenses
- Delivers automatic, non-means-tested support twice a year
- Offers stability alongside Care Support Payment, especially as expenses rise
Key Dates in 2025
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Date (Spring) | 14 April 2025 |
| Supplement Paid (Spring assessment) | 12 July 2025 |
| Qualifying Date (Autumn) | 13 October 2025 |
| Supplement Paid (Autumn assessment) | December 2025 |
What You Need to Do
- Ensure your details are up to date with DWP and Social Security Scotland (bank info, address).
- Continue receiving Carer’s Allowance or Carer Support Payment on the qualifying dates.
- Look out for a notification letter confirming payment details.
- Check your bank account around July 12, 2025, for the deposit.
- Keep receipts and records, in case of discrepancies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this payment available outside Scotland?
No, CAS is specific to Scotland. Other UK nations have different carer supports.
2. Do I need to apply separately for the July payment?
No. It’s automatic, based on qualifying criteria. You’ll simply receive the £288.60 payment.
3. Can I lose eligibility if I stop receiving Carer’s Allowance?
Yes. If your Carer’s Allowance or Support Payment stops before an assessment date, you may miss the supplemental payment.
4. Will this affect my other benefits?
No. CAS is not means-tested and doesn’t reduce other benefits like Universal Credit or Housing Benefit.
5. Who pays the supplement?
Payments are managed jointly by the DWP and Social Security Scotland, depending on which benefit you receive.
Final Takeaway
The July 2025 £288.60 Carer’s Allowance Supplement is a critical acknowledgment from the DWP and Scottish Government, aimed at recognizing the unpaid care many provide in Scotland. It’s automatic, twice-yearly, and eases the financial pressures on carers.
If you’re eligible, you don’t need to apply—just ensure you remain in payment and keep your details accurate. Monitor your account around July 12 and prepare for the December installment later this year.