Special Guardianship Allowance Calculator

Calculate your potential financial support for special guardianship in the UK

Financial Assessment

Your Estimated Allowance

Enter your details and click calculate to see your estimated special guardianship allowance.

How Special Guardianship Allowances Work

Special guardianship allowances provide financial support to help cover the costs of caring for a child under a Special Guardianship Order (SGO). The allowance is means-tested and based on your financial circumstances.

Current Foster Care Allowance Rates (2025/26)

Special guardianship allowances are typically based on foster care allowance rates. Here are the current national minimum allowances:

0-4 years
£170-£198/week
5-10 years
£176-£201/week
11-15 years
£194-£225/week
16+ years
£220-£299/week

Important Information

This calculator provides estimates only. Actual allowances vary by local authority and individual circumstances. Contact your local authority’s children’s services for an official assessment.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a special guardianship allowance, you must:

  • Have a Special Guardianship Order (SGO) for the child
  • Demonstrate financial need through means testing
  • Show that support is necessary to ensure you can care for the child
  • Meet your local authority’s specific criteria

The Means Testing Process

Local authorities use a standardised means test developed by the Department for Education. This assessment considers:

  • Your total household income
  • Essential monthly expenses
  • Number of dependent children
  • The child’s specific needs
  • Your disposable income after essential costs

How Payments Are Calculated

The calculation typically works as follows:

  • Maximum allowance equals foster care allowance rates minus Child Benefit
  • If your disposable income is below £0, you receive the full allowance
  • For every £1 of disposable income, 50p is deducted from the allowance
  • If disposable income is too high, no allowance is payable

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do special guardianship allowances last?
Allowances typically continue until the child reaches 18 or finishes full-time education. They are subject to annual reviews and may change if your circumstances change significantly.
Can I get additional support for a child with special needs?
Yes, children with disabilities, emotional difficulties, or those who have experienced trauma may qualify for enhanced allowances to cover additional care costs.
What other benefits can I claim alongside the allowance?
You may also be eligible for Child Benefit, Guardian’s Allowance (£22.10/week if both parents are deceased), and other means-tested benefits depending on your circumstances.
How do I apply for a special guardianship allowance?
Contact your local authority’s children’s services department. They will arrange a financial assessment and determine your eligibility based on the means test.
What happens if my income changes?
You must inform your local authority of significant changes in income or circumstances. Your allowance will be reviewed and may be adjusted accordingly.

Additional Financial Support

One-off Payments

Local authorities may provide one-off payments for:

  • Bedroom furniture and equipment
  • Nursery costs and childcare
  • Educational expenses
  • Medical equipment or therapy costs

Section 17 Support

Under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989, councils may provide additional family support services, including financial assistance for families assessed as having a ‘child in need’.

Kinship Allowance Pilot

From autumn 2025, selected local authorities in England will participate in a pilot scheme offering kinship allowances equivalent to fostering national minimum allowances for eligible special guardians.

References

Information in this calculator is based on official government guidance and regulations:

  • Special Guardianship Regulations 2005 (SI 2005/1109)
  • Department for Education Special Guardianship Statutory Guidance 2013
  • The Fostering Network – National Minimum Allowances 2025/26
  • Children Act 1989 – Section 17 Family Support Services
  • Guardian’s Allowance Regulations – GOV.UK

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