Moving from Carers Benefit to Carers Allowance

Early last year I was made redundant. As my wife was seriously ill for a number of years prior to this and has lifetime medical problems I had taken Carers Leave from work on a number of occasions (getting paid Carers Benefit) and so when I was made redundant I went straight onto Carers Benefit as I was unavailable for work. Over the last year she has had 2 more surgeries and my Carers Benefit will be running out in approx 2 months.
Do I have to apply for Carers Allowance or will I automatically switch onto it? If I do have to apply anyone know how long this might take?

Yes you do need to apply for carer's Allowance as it is a means tested payment.

I think there is a long waiting time so make sure all the information is included with the application to avoid further delays.

If there a gap between the ending of Benefit and the awarding of the Allowance you may be eligible for SWA.

Btw is your wife in receipt of a Disability or Invalidity payment? Perhaps you may be entitled to a Qualified Adult of her payment with the 1/2 rate carer's Allowance

Thanks Black Sheep. What is SWA? Yes my wife is getting Invalidity Pension for a number of years. Is there a benefit to getting a Qualified Adult payment and 1/2 rate Carers allowance? How do I go about applying for this anyhow?

SWA = Supplemtary Welfare Allowance which is an interim payment by the Community Welfare Officer while awaiting another SW payment.

For Qualified Adult payment contact the Invalidity Section of DSP. Rate is E138.10 (under 66) or E206.00 (over 66)

Also apply for Carer's Allowance