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The Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Carer’s Assistance) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2026

S.I. 2026/246 · Made 3 March 2026

Original text. legislation.gov.uk does not revise statutory instruments, so later amendments are not shown here. Changes made to it are listed under each provision when known.

CONSTITUTIONAL LAW

DEVOLUTION, SCOTLAND

SOCIAL SECURITY

Made 3rd March 2026

Coming into force 15th March 2026

The Secretary of State makes this Order in exercise of the powers conferred by section 104, 112(1) and 113(5) of the Scotland Act 1998f1.

In accordance with paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 of Schedule 7 to that Act a draft of this Order has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.

Annotations to the whole text

Footnotes

f1

1998 c. 46. There are amendments to sections 104 and 112 which are not relevant to this Order.

Contents

  1. Part 1: Citation, commencement and extent
  2. 1Citation, commencement and extent
  3. Part 2: England and Wales
  4. 2Amendment of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992
  5. 3Amendment of the Social Security (Invalid Care Allowance) Regulations 1976
  6. Part 3: England and Wales and Scotland
  7. 4Amendment of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992
  8. 5Amendment of the State Pension Credit Act 2002
  9. 6Amendment of the Social Security (Credits) Regulations 1975
  10. 7Amendment of the Social Security (Widow’s Benefit and Retirement Pensions) Regulations 1979
  11. 8Amendment of the Income Support (General) Regulations 1987
  12. 9Amendment of the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1987
  13. 10Amendment of the Social Security (Payments on account, Overpayments and Recovery) Regulations 1988
  14. 11Amendment of the Income Support (Liable Relatives) Regulations 1990
  15. 12Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 1996
  16. 13Amendment of the Social Security and Child Support (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations 1999
  17. 14Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations 2000
  18. 15Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews for Lone Parents) and Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2000
  19. 16Amendment of the Social Security (Jobcentre Plus Interviews) Regulations 2002
  20. 17Amendment of the State Pension Credit Regulations 2002
  21. 18Amendment of the Social Security (Deferral of Retirement Pensions) Regulations 2005
  22. 19Amendment of the Social Fund Maternity and Funeral Expenses (General) Regulations 2005
  23. 20Amendment of the Housing Benefit Regulations 2006
  24. 21Amendment of the Housing Benefit (Persons who have attained the qualifying age for state pension credit) Regulations 2006
  25. 22Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2008
  26. 23Amendment of the Social Security (Contributions Credits for Parents and Carers) Regulations 2010
  27. 24Amendment of the Child Support Maintenance Calculation Regulations 2012
  28. 25Amendment of the Universal Credit Regulations 2013
  29. 26Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 2013
  30. 27Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2013
  31. 28Amendment of the Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2014
  32. 29Amendment of the State Pension Regulations 2015
  33. Part 4: Northern Ireland
  34. 30Amendment of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits (Northern Ireland) Act 1992
  35. 31Amendment of the State Pension Credit Act (Northern Ireland) 2002
  36. 32Amendment of the Social Security (Credits) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1975
  37. 33Amendment of the Social Security (Invalid Care Allowance) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1976
  38. 34Amendment of the Social Security (Widow’s Benefit and Retirement Pensions) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 1979
  39. 35Amendment of the Income Support (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1987
  40. 36Amendment of the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1987
  41. 37Amendment of the Income Support (Liable Relatives) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1990
  42. 38Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996
  43. 39Amendment of the Social Security and Child Support (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999
  44. 40Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews for Lone Parents) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001
  45. 41Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001
  46. 42Amendment of the State Pension Credit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003
  47. 43Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003
  48. 44Amendment of the Social Security (Deferral of Retirement Pensions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005
  49. 45Amendment of the Social Fund Maternity and Funeral Expenses (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005
  50. 46Amendment of the Housing Benefit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006
  51. 47Amendment of the Housing Benefit (Persons who have attained the qualifying age for state pension credit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006
  52. 48Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008
  53. 49Amendment of the Social Security (Contributions Credits for Parents and Carers) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010
  54. 50Amendment of the Child Support Maintenance Calculation Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012
  55. 51Amendment of the State Pension Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015
  56. 52Amendment of the Universal Credit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016
  57. 53Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016
  58. 54Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016
  59. 55Amendment of the Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016
  60. Part 5: England and Wales and Scotland and Northern Ireland
  61. 56Amendment of the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001
  62. Signature
  63. Explanatory note

1Citation, commencement and extent

(1)

This Order may be cited as the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (Carer’s Assistance) (Consequential Modifications) Order 2026.

(2)

This Order comes into force on 15th March 2026.

(3)

Parts 1 and 5 of this Order extend to England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

(4)

Part 2 of this Order extends to England and Wales only.

(5)

Part 3 of this Order extends to England and Wales and Scotland only.

(6)

Part 4 of this Order extends to Northern Ireland only.

2Amendment of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992

In the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992f1, in section 70(7B) (carer’s allowance), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

3Amendment of the Social Security (Invalid Care Allowance) Regulations 1976

In the Social Security (Invalid Care Allowance) Regulations 1976f1, in regulation 7(5) (manner of electing the person entitled to a carer’s allowance in respect of a severely disabled person for the purposes of section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

4Amendment of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992

In the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992f1, in section 150(2) (interpretation of Part 10), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

5Amendment of the State Pension Credit Act 2002

In the State Pension Credit Act 2002f1, in section 17(1) (other interpretation provisions), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

6Amendment of the Social Security (Credits) Regulations 1975

In the Social Security (Credits) Regulations 1975f1, in regulation 7A(3) (credits for carer’s allowance or carer support payment), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

7Amendment of the Social Security (Widow’s Benefit and Retirement Pensions) Regulations 1979

In the Social Security (Widow’s Benefit and Retirement Pensions) Regulations 1979f1, in regulation 4(1)(b)(v) (days to be treated as days of increment), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

8Amendment of the Income Support (General) Regulations 1987

(1)

The Income Support (General) Regulations 1987f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 2 (applicable amounts), in paragraph 14ZA (carer premium)—

(a)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(b)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(c)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(d)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (3)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “eight weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 9 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 87, insert—

“88

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

89

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 10 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 7(1)—

(a)

in paragraph (a), for “or 86” substitute “, 86, 88 or 89”;

(b)

after paragraph (g), insert—

“(h)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act,”.

9Amendment of the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1987

In the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations 1987f1, in regulation 3A(6) (notification that claim not required for entitlement to a Category A or B retirement pension), in paragraph (ab) of the definition of “non-exempt benefit”, for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

10Amendment of the Social Security (Payments on account, Overpayments and Recovery) Regulations 1988

In the Social Security (Payments on account, Overpayments and Recovery) Regulations 1988f1, in regulation 5(2B) (offsetting prior payment against subsequent award), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

11Amendment of the Income Support (Liable Relatives) Regulations 1990

In the Income Support (Liable Relatives) Regulations 1990f1, in regulation 2(1)(e) (prescribed amounts for the purposes of section 24A of the Act), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

12Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 1996

(1)

The Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 1996f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 1(3) (citation, commencement, interpretation and application), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 1 (applicable amounts)—

(a)

in paragraph 17 (carer premium)—

(i)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(ii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iv)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (3)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “eight weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”;

(b)

in paragraph 20J (carer premium)—

(i)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(ii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iv)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (3)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “eight weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 7 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 83, insert—

“84

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

85

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 8 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 12(1)—

(a)

in paragraph (a), for “or 82” substitute “82, 84 or 85”;

(b)

after paragraph (f), insert—

“(g)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Benefits Act,”.

13Amendment of the Social Security and Child Support (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations 1999

In the Social Security and Child Support (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations 1999f1, in regulation 7(2B) (date from which a decision superseded under section 10 takes effect), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

14Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations 2000

In the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations 2000f1, in regulation 6(4)(b) (continuing entitlement dependent upon an interview), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

15Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews for Lone Parents) and Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2000

In the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews for Lone Parents) and Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2000f1, in regulation 2ZB(5)(a) (general requirement for lone parents entitled to income support to take part in an interview), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

16Amendment of the Social Security (Jobcentre Plus Interviews) Regulations 2002

In the Social Security (Jobcentre Plus Interviews) Regulations 2002f1, in regulation 4(4)(a) (continuing entitlement to specified benefit dependent on an interview) for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

17Amendment of the State Pension Credit Regulations 2002

(1)

The State Pension Credit Regulations 2002f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 1(2) (citation, commencement and interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In regulation 15(1) (income for the purposes of the act), after sub-paragraph (rh), insert—

“(ri)

Scottish carer supplement and carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023;”.

(4)

In Schedule 1, in Part 2 (amount applicable for carers), in paragraph 4—

(a)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(b)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraph (3)(a), where the relevant additional amount has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the reference to “8 weeks” is to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(5)

In Schedule 5 (income from capital), after paragraph 20(2)(y), insert—

“;

(z)

any amount of carer support payment that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the 1992 Act;

(z1)

any Scottish carer supplement or carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023”.

18Amendment of the Social Security (Deferral of Retirement Pensions) Regulations 2005

In the Social Security (Deferral of Retirement Pensions) Regulations 2005f1, in regulation 3(1)(a)(v) (amount of retirement pension not included in the calculation of the lump sum) for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

19Amendment of the Social Fund Maternity and Funeral Expenses (General) Regulations 2005

In the Social Fund Maternity and Funeral Expenses (General) Regulations 2005f1, in regulation 10(1A)(ca) (deductions from an award of a funeral payment), omit “payment” in the first place it appears.

20Amendment of the Housing Benefit Regulations 2006

(1)

The Housing Benefit Regulations 2006f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 3 (applicable amounts), in paragraph 17 (carer premium)—

(a)

in the words before sub-paragraph (2)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(b)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(c)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (2)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “eight weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 5 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 74, insert—

“75

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

76

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 6 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 9(1)—

(a)

in paragraph (a), for “or 73” substitute “, 73, 75 or 76”;

(b)

after paragraph (i), insert—

“(j)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Act,”.

21Amendment of the Housing Benefit (Persons who have attained the qualifying age for state pension credit) Regulations 2006

(1)

The Housing Benefit (Persons who have attained the qualifying age for state pension credit) Regulations 2006f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In regulation 29(1)(j) (meaning of “income”), after paragraph (xviih), insert—

“(xviiha)

Scottish carer supplement and carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023;”.

(4)

In Schedule 3 (applicable amounts), in paragraph 9 (carer premium)—

(a)

in the words before sub-paragraph (2)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(b)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the reference to “eight weeks” is to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(5)

In Schedule 6 (capital to be disregarded), after paragraph 21(2)(x), insert—

“(y)

any amount of carer support payment that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Act;

(z)

any Scottish carer supplement or carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023”.

22Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2008

(1)

The Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2008f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 4 (amounts), in paragraph 8 (carer premium)—

(a)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(b)

in the words before sub-paragraph (2)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(c)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(d)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (2)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “8 weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 8 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 75, insert—

“76

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

77

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 9 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 11(1)—

(a)

in paragraph (a), for “or 74” substitute “, 74, 76 or 77”;

(b)

after paragraph (e), insert—

“(f)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act,”.

23Amendment of the Social Security (Contributions Credits for Parents and Carers) Regulations 2010

(1)

The Social Security (Contributions Credits for Parents and Carers) Regulations 2010f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 7 (additional period in respect of entitlement to carer's allowance or carer support payment and relevant benefits)—

(a)

in paragraph (1)—

(i)

in sub-paragraph (a), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”;

(ii)

in sub-paragraph (b), for “carer support payment” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”;

(b)

in paragraph (2), after “payment” insert “of the carer support payment component of carer support”.

24Amendment of the Child Support Maintenance Calculation Regulations 2012

In the Child Support Maintenance Calculation Regulations 2012f1, in regulation 44(1)(j) (flat rate) for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

25Amendment of the Universal Credit Regulations 2013

In the Universal Credit Regulations 2013f1, in regulation 2 (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

26Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 2013

In the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations 2013f1, in regulation 2(2) (general interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

27Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2013

(1)

The Employment and Support Allowance Regulations 2013f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2 (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In regulation 100(b) (modification in the calculation of income), for “payment” in the second place it appears substitute “given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023”.

28Amendment of the Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2014

In the Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations 2014f1, in Schedule 2 (claimants previously entitled to a severe disability premium), in paragraph 8(3), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

29Amendment of the State Pension Regulations 2015

(1)

The State Pension Regulations 2015f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 11(2)(a)(via) (days which are not included in determining the period of deferral), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

(3)

In regulation 38 (credits for an additional period in respect of entitlement to carer’s allowance or carer support payment and relevant benefits)—

(a)

in paragraphs (1)(a) and (2), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”;

(b)

in paragraph (1)(b), for “carer support payment” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

30Amendment of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits (Northern Ireland) Act 1992

In the Social Security Contributions and Benefits (Northern Ireland) Act 1992f1, in section 70(7B) (carer’s allowance) for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

31Amendment of the State Pension Credit Act (Northern Ireland) 2002

In the State Pension Credit Act (Northern Ireland) 2002f1, in section 2(8A) (guarantee credit), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

32Amendment of the Social Security (Credits) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1975

In the Social Security (Credits) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1975f1, in regulation 7A(3) (credits for carer’s allowance), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

33Amendment of the Social Security (Invalid Care Allowance) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1976

In the Social Security (Invalid Care Allowance) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1976f1, in regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

34Amendment of the Social Security (Widow’s Benefit and Retirement Pensions) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 1979

In the Social Security (Widow’s Benefit and Retirement Pensions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1979f1, in regulation 4(1)(b)(v) (days to be treated as days of increment), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

35Amendment of the Income Support (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1987

(1)

The Income Support (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1987f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 2 (applicable amounts), in paragraph 14ZA (carer premium)—

(a)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(b)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(c)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(d)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (3)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “eight weeks” should be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 9 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 78, insert—

“79

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

80

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 10 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 7(1)—

(a)

in head (a), for “or 77” substitute “, 77, 79 or 80”;

(b)

after head (e), insert—

“(f)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act,”.

36Amendment of the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1987

In the Social Security (Claims and Payments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1987f1, in regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

37Amendment of the Income Support (Liable Relatives) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1990

In the Income Support (Liable Relatives) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1990f1, in regulation 2(1)(e) (prescribed amounts for the purposes of Article 25A of the Order), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

38Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996

(1)

The Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 1(2) (citation, commencement, interpretation and application), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 1 (applicable amounts)—

(a)

in paragraph 17 (carer premium)—

(i)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(ii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iv)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (3)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “eight weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”;

(b)

in paragraph 20J (carer premium)—

(i)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(ii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iii)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(iv)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (3)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “eight weeks” and “8 weeks” respectively, are to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 6 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 74, insert—

“75

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

76

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 7 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 12(1)—

(a)

in head (a), for “or 73” substitute “, 73, 75 or 76”;

(b)

after head (f), insert—

“(g)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act,”.

39Amendment of the Social Security and Child Support (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999

In the Social Security and Child Support (Decisions and Appeals) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1999f1, in regulation 1(2) (citation, commencement, application and interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

40Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews for Lone Parents) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001

In the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews for Lone Parents) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001f1, in regulation 2ZB(5)(a) (general requirement for lone parents entitled to income support to take part in an interview), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

41Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001

In the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2001f1, in regulation 5(4)(b) (continuing entitlement dependent upon an interview), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

42Amendment of the State Pension Credit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003

(1)

The State Pension Credit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 1(2) (citation, commencement and interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In regulation 15(1) (income for the purposes of the Act), after sub-paragraph (qg), insert—

“(qh)

Scottish carer supplement and carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023;”.

(4)

In Schedule 1 (circumstances in which persons are treated as being or not being severely disabled), in Part 2 (amount applicable for carers), in paragraph 4—

(a)

in the words before sub-paragraph (3)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(b)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraph (3)(a), where the relevant additional amount has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the reference to “8 weeks” is to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(5)

In Schedule 5 (income from capital), after paragraph 20(2)(w), insert—

“(x)

any amount of carer support payment that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act.

(y)

any Scottish carer supplement or carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023”.

43Amendment of the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003

In the Social Security (Work-focused Interviews) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003f1, in regulation 3(4)(a) (continuing entitlement to full amount of a specified benefit dependent on an interview), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

44Amendment of the Social Security (Deferral of Retirement Pensions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005

In the Social Security (Deferral of Retirement Pensions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005f1, in regulation 3(1)(a)(v) (amount of retirement pension not included in the calculation of the lump sum) for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

45Amendment of the Social Fund Maternity and Funeral Expenses (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005

In the Social Fund Maternity and Funeral Expenses (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005f1, in regulation 10(1A)(ca) (deductions from an award of a funeral payment), omit “payment” in the first place it appears.

46Amendment of the Housing Benefit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006

(1)

The Housing Benefit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 4 (applicable amounts), in paragraph 17 (carer premium)—

(a)

in the words before sub-paragraph (2)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(b)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(c)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (2)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “8 weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 6 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 71, insert—

“72

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

73

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 7 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 9(1)—

(a)

in head (a), for “or 70” substitute “, 70, 72 or 73”;

(b)

after head (i), insert—

“(j)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act,”.

47Amendment of the Housing Benefit (Persons who have attained the qualifying age for state pension credit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006

(1)

The Housing Benefit (Persons who have attained the qualifying age for state pension credit) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In regulation 27(1)(h) (meaning of “income”), after paragraph (xve), insert—

“(xvea)

Scottish carer supplement and carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(4)

In Schedule 4 (applicable amounts), in paragraph 9 (carer premium)—

(a)

in the words before sub-paragraph (2)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(b)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraph (2)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the reference to “8 weeks” is to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(5)

In Schedule 7 (capital to be disregarded), after paragraph 21(2)(u), insert—

“(v)

any amount of carer support payment that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act;

(w)

any Scottish carer supplement or carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

48Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008

(1)

The Employment and Support Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In Schedule 4 (amounts), in paragraph 8 (carer premium)—

(a)

in sub-paragraph (1), for “and (4)” substitute “, (4) and (5)”;

(b)

in the words before sub-paragraph (2)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(c)

in the words before sub-paragraph (4)(a), for “Where” substitute “Subject to sub-paragraph (5), where”;

(d)

after sub-paragraph (4), insert—

“(5)

For the purposes of sub-paragraphs (2)(a) and (4)(a), where the relevant premium has been awarded as a result of the claimant or the claimant’s partner being entitled to carer support payment, and the death occurred on or after 15th March 2026, the references to “8 weeks” are to be read as “12 weeks”.”.

(4)

In Schedule 8 (sums to be disregarded in the calculation of income other than earnings), after paragraph 69, insert—

“70

Any Scottish carer supplement given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.

71

Any carer additional person payment given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023.”.

(5)

In Schedule 9 (capital to be disregarded), in paragraph 11(1)—

(a)

in head (a), for “or 68” substitute “, 68, 70 or 71”;

(b)

after head (e), insert—

“(f)

carer support payment, but only that amount that is in excess of the amount the claimant would receive if they had an entitlement to carer’s allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act,”.

49Amendment of the Social Security (Contributions Credits for Parents and Carers) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010

(1)

The Social Security (Contributions Credits for Parents and Carers) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 7 (additional period in respect of entitlement to carer's allowance, carer support payment and relevant benefits)—

(a)

in paragraph (1)(a), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”;

(b)

in paragraph (1)(b), for “carer support payment” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”;

(c)

in paragraph (2), after “payment” insert “of the carer support payment component of carer support”.

50Amendment of the Child Support Maintenance Calculation Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012

In the Child Support Maintenance Calculation Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012f1, in regulation 43(1)(j) (flat rate), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

51Amendment of the State Pension Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015

(1)

The State Pension Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 11(2)(a)(via) (days which are not included in determining the period of deferral), for “carer support payment under” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with”.

(3)

In regulation 38 (credits for an additional period in respect of entitlement to carer's allowance and relevant benefits)—

(a)

in the heading, after “carer’s allowance” insert “or carer’s support payment”;

(b)

in paragraph (1)(a), after “carer's allowance by virtue of subsection (1) of section 70(1) of the Contributions and Benefits Act (carers allowance)” insert “or the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023”;

(c)

at the end of paragraph (1)(b) insert “or the carer support payment component of carer support by virtue of those Regulations”;

(d)

in paragraph (2), after “an allowance under section 70 of the Contributions and Benefits Act” insert “or the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023”.

52Amendment of the Universal Credit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016

In the Universal Credit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016f1, in regulation 2(1) (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

53Amendment of the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016

In the Jobseeker’s Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016f1, in regulation 2(2) (general interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

54Amendment of the Employment and Support Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016

(1)

The Employment and Support Allowance Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016f1 are amended as follows.

(2)

In regulation 2 (interpretation), in the definition of “carer support payment”, for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

(3)

In regulation 100(b) (modification in the calculation of income), for “payment” in the second place it appears substitute “given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations 2023”.

55Amendment of the Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016

In the Universal Credit (Transitional Provisions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016f1, in Schedule 2 (claimants previously entitled to a severe disability premium), in paragraph 8(3), for “carer’s assistance” substitute “the carer support payment component of carer support”.

56Amendment of the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001

In the Social Security (Contributions) Regulations 2001f1, in regulation 43(1) (exception from Class 2 contributions), for sub-paragraph (e) substitute—

“(e)

in respect of any part of which the earner is in receipt of carer’s allowance, the carer support payment component of carer support given in accordance with the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) (Scotland) Regulations or an unemployability supplement.”.

Signature

Kirsty McNeill

Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State

Scotland Office

3rd March 2026

Explanatory note

(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order makes amendments in consequence of regulations made under section 28 (carer’s assistance) of the Social Security (Scotland) Act 2018 (asp 9). Those regulations are the Carer’s Assistance (Carer Support Payment) Regulations 2023 (SSI 2023/302) (“2023 Regulations”) and the Carer’s Assistance (Miscellaneous and Consequential Amendments, Revocation, Transitional and Saving Provisions) (Scotland) Regulations 2025 (SSI 2025/340) (“2025 Regulations”).

The 2023 Regulations introduced arrangements for the payment of carer’s assistance in Scotland in the form of “carer support payment”. The carer support payment replaced the carer’s allowance for carers residing in Scotland.

The 2025 Regulations amended the 2023 Regulations to introduce “carer support”, which consists of i) “carer support payment”, ii) “Scottish carer supplement”, and iii) “carer additional person payment” where there is an additional person cared for by the carer support recipient. They also amended the 2023 Regulations to provide that carers in receipt of carer support (consisting of all applicable components) will continue to receive that benefit after the death of their cared-for person for twelve weeks instead of eight weeks.

This Order does the following.

It makes amendments to defined terms in social security legislation to reflect the introduction of carer support payment by the 2023 Regulations, and the subsequent introduction of carer support and its three components by the 2025 Regulations.

For carers in receipt of carer support payment (as introduced by the 2025 Regulations) who receive a resultant carer premium attached to certain reserved benefits, the period that they receive the carer premium after their cared-for person dies is being extended from eight weeks to twelve weeks. The reserved benefits this will apply to are Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit and Housing Benefit.

It amends social security legislation to set out the extent to which carer support (as introduced by the 2025 Regulations) is to be taken into account in the calculation of capital and income for the purpose of determining entitlement to Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Pension Credit and Housing Benefit.

A full Impact Assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant impact on the private, voluntary or public sectors is foreseen.