Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, when the level of income-tax exemption for foster carers was last revised in respect of care allowances; and if he will make a new adjustment to take account of the rising level of foster care allowances.

Qualifying Care Relief (QCR) is a tax relief available to support foster carers, in addition to some other carers. QCR was first introduced as Foster Care Relief in 2003-04. This allowance is £10,000 per household per year, plus £250 per week per adult or child aged 11 or over (£200 for a child under 11).

It is important to consider that the QCR operates in addition to other reliefs and allowances. Foster carers are also entitled to the Personal Allowance, which may be available to cover any foster care income above the QCR allowance. The Government has increased the Personal Allowance (PA) by over 40 per cent in real terms since 2010, ensuring some of the lowest earners do not pay income tax. The PA is the highest basic personal tax allowance of all countries in the G20, and it remains one of the most generous internationally.

The Government keeps all aspects of the tax system under review.