Carer's Allowance and Child's Age

Heighway61

I am in receipt of CA for a child. Recently, the child turned 16. Domiciliary CA and medical card were stopped but Carer's continued. Why would Carer's continue when the others stop?

Heighway61

I'm guessing it would be payable until age 18.

Also, is the means test sliding scale published anywhere?

Gusser09

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058259498/carers-allowance-and-childs-age

Carers is a means tested payment whereas DCA is paid to any child under16 that meets the criteria. Totally different payment and section. Say nothing.

Carers Allowance is paid on the basis that the person you are caring for is:

• Age 16 or over and so incapacitated as to require full-time care and attention or
• Under 16 and getting a Domiciliary Care Allowance.

I'm assuming your Carer's allowance has been continued on the basis of the first point, but my advice is to contact them and check because you don't want problems (or end up owing them) down the line if you do need to formally reapply now your child has turned 16.

Your 16 year old can now apply for a Disability Allowance in their own right.

Honestly is ALWAYS the best policy when dealing with DSP.

Heighway61

I think it might be that the child falls under the first conditions above as we are in receipt of the Incapacitated Child Credit.