If you’re a carer providing essential support to someone living with a disability, you may be eligible for additional financial assistance through the Carers Element of Universal Credit.
This benefit is designed to help those who care for a loved one, offering up to £201.68 a month to those who meet the eligibility criteria.
In this guide, we’ll cover what the Carers Element of Universal Credit is, who qualifies for it, and how to apply. We’ll also cover how the Carers Element may affect other benefits you receive, helping you navigate the process of securing the support you deserve.
What is the carers element of universal credit?
The Carers Element is an additional payment you could receive as part of your Universal Credit payment if you provide regular care to someone with a disability.
Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit that provides financial support for individuals on a low income, those who are unemployed, or those who are unable to work. The Carers Element is designed to support individuals who provide at least 35 hours of care a week to someone who receives specific disability benefits.
Importantly, while your income doesn’t automatically prevent you from claiming the Carers Element, Universal Credit is still means-tested. This means that your savings and income (above £16,000) could affect the amount of Universal Credit you are entitled to. However, the Carers Element remains available to those who meet the necessary care requirements, regardless of earnings.
Who is eligible for the carers element of universal credit?
To qualify for the Carers Element of Universal Credit you need to meet a few key criteria. This extra payment is available to those who are providing regular care for someone with a disability.
Here’s a breakdown of who can claim:
1. Care requirements
You must be providing at least 35 hours of care per week to someone who is living with a disability. This can be in various forms, such as helping with personal care, cooking meals, or assisting with daily tasks. It’s not just about the physical hours but the level of support you provide to the person in need.
2. The person you care for
The person you’re looking after must receive one of the following disability benefits:
- Attendance Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – the care component (highest or middle rate)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – the daily living component
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance (paid with Industrial Injuries Benefit or War Disablement Pension)
You don’t have to live with the person you care for, and you don’t need to be receiving Carer’s Allowance to qualify for the Carers Element of Universal Credit.
3. Other considerations
If multiple people are caring for the same person, you’ll need to decide between you who will receive the Carers Element, as only one claim can be made per care recipient.
How to apply for the carers element of universal credit
Applying for the Carers Element is a straightforward process, but you’ll need to provide a few key details to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Here’s what you need to do:
1. Gather your information
Before you apply, make sure you have the following information to hand:
- The name of the person you care for
- Their date of birth
- Their National Insurance number
- Any disability benefits they receive (or have applied for)
- Whether you receive or are entitled to Carer’s Allowance
- The number of hours per week you care for the person
- The contact details of anyone else who cares for the same person and whether they receive Carer’s Allowance
2. How to apply
You can apply for the Carers Element by following these steps:
- Online application: If you’re already receiving Universal Credit, you can apply for the Carers Element through your online Universal Credit account.
- Phone application: If you need help applying, you can call the Universal Credit helpline.
3. What happens next?
Once you’ve submitted your application, the DWP will review your information to confirm your eligibility. If you qualify, the Carers Element will be added to your regular Universal Credit payment. You’ll typically receive your first payment within five weeks of your Universal Credit claim.
How much is the payment?
For the 2025/2026 financial year, the Carers Element is worth:
- £46.40 per week
- £201.68 per month
This amount is added on top of your standard Universal Credit payment, so it’ll go into the same account. If you make a joint claim with a partner, you and your partner may each receive the Carers Element, provided you’re both eligible (you can’t be caring for the same person, though).
How often is it paid?
The Carers Element is usually paid monthly as part of your regular Universal Credit payment. The first payment typically takes about five weeks to process after your initial claim for Universal Credit, but after that, it will be paid on a monthly basis.
Effect on other benefits
Receiving the Carers Element of Universal Credit can impact other benefits and Government initiatives you may be receiving, so it’s important to understand how they interact. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Impact on the person you care for
If you receive the Carers Element, the person you care for may lose their entitlement to the Severe Disability Premium. This premium is paid to people who receive certain disability benefits and who live alone. So, if you’re receiving the Carers Element, the person you care for will no longer be able to claim this premium.
2. Carer’s allowance and carers element
If you’re already receiving Carer’s Allowance, you will likely receive a Carer Premium or the Carers Element added to your Universal Credit payment automatically. The Carers Element is meant to complement the support you already get through Carer’s Allowance, ensuring you get the most support possible.
3. Legacy benefits and carers element
If you’re receiving any of the following legacy benefits, they are gradually being replaced by Universal Credit:
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Tax Credits
If you’re receiving a legacy benefit and you also meet the criteria for Carer’s Allowance, you might be eligible for the Carer Premium or Carers Element when you move to Universal Credit. These legacy benefits could affect how much Universal Credit you can get, but most disability benefits such as PIP, DLA, and Attendance Allowance won’t affect the amount of Universal Credit you receive.
4. Other benefits that may affect your universal credit
Certain benefits, such as Statutory Sick Pay or New Style Employment and Support Allowance, may affect your Universal Credit payment. However, disability benefits (like PIP, DLA, or Attendance Allowance) will not impact how much Universal Credit you can claim.
A helping hand at home
For 80 years, Prestige Nursing & Care has been trusted by our clients and their families to provide competent and compassionate home care. Our care is focused on improving health and overall well-being, and all in the place people love most – their own homes.
Call us on 0808 239 1525 and our friendly care experts will discuss your care and support needs. You can also fill out our online enquiry form or email info@prestige-nursing.co.uk. We provide impartial guidance and advice so you make the right choice for you and your family.
