Carer's Allowance - I get Carer's Allowance and I'm moving to Scotland

From 6 November 2025, if you’re getting Carer’s Allowance and move to Scotland, you’ll need to make a new claim for Carer Support Payment. This process used to happen automatically, but now you must apply. 

Tell the right people 

You should contact the department that currently pays your Carers Allowance and tell them about your change of address.  

• In England or Wales, contact the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)  
• In Northern Ireland, contact the Department for Communities (DfC)

Apply for Carer Support Payment 

You should apply for Carer Support Payment as soon as possible to avoid any gaps in your payments. It could take time Social Security Scotland to process your application.

Your Carer’s Allowance will continue to be paid for 13 weeks after you move to Scotland.  

If your application is successful, your Carer Support Payment may be backdated to the day after your Carer’s Allowance ends. However, this will depend on your personal circumstances.

Social Security Scotland will send you a letter with information about your award and any backdated amounts.

Don’t forget to update other benefits 

If you get other benefits, like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Housing Benefit, you’ll need to tell those offices about your moves as well.