Publication - Advice and guidance
Care Leaver Payment – Guidance for Recipients
The Scottish Government introduced the Care Leaver Payment on 1 April 2026 to help young people overcome financial barriers as they leave care and move into independent living. This guidance document is designed for young people who will get the payment.
12. Will getting the payment affect my tax or my entitlement to benefits?
Receiving the payment will not affect the amount of tax that you pay or have any impact on your entitlement to benefits.
The payment will also not effect:
- The level of Council Tax Reduction entitlement that you get;
- Your income sources in a statutory debt solution;
- Your entitlement to Scottish legal aid.
Contact
Email: careleaverpayment@gov.scot