Universal Credit – carer element

What is Universal Credit?

Universal Credit is a benefit for people of working age who are on a low income or out of work.

It's a single payment that combines six existing benefits, including Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance and Housing Benefit. 

For most new applicants, it has already replaced these 'legacy benefits', and eventually it will replace them for everyone.

It is made up of a standard allowance and various additional elements that may apply, depending on your individual circumstances. It's means-tested and the total you get cannot exceed a maximum amount that is calculated for each household.

To claim Universal Credit, visit gov.uk or call the Universal Credit helpline on 0800 328 5644 (Mon-Fri. 8am-6pm). To work out how much Universal Credit you could be eligible for and how the payments work, read our guide on how Universal Credit is calculated.

What is the Universal Credit carer element?

If you qualify for Universal Credit, you may be able to get an extra amount because of your caring role, known as the 'carer element'. 

To claim the carer's element you must be caring for a severely disabled person for at least 35 hours a week.

How much is the carer element?

The carer element of Universal Credit is worth £198.31 a month for the 2024-25 financial year.

Additional information on the Universal Credit carer element

• Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit, so the amount you get will be affected by any other income or benefits you receive, and any savings above £16,000.
• Other means-tested benefits include Pension Credit, Housing Benefit and council tax reduction.
• If you're already in receipt of Carer's Allowance, that will count as part of your income when your means-tested benefits are calculated.
• Any means-tested benefit you receive will decrease if you are being paid Carer's Allowance, although you'll probably be better off in total. To find out more, read our guide to Carer's Allowance.
• If the person you care for receives a severe disability premium as part of their benefits, they will lose this if you are granted the carer element of Universal Credit.

What can I claim if I still receive a 'legacy benefit'?

Some benefits are known as 'legacy benefits' because they are gradually being replaced by Universal Credit.

If you receive a legacy benefit, such as Income Support or Housing Benefit, instead of Universal Credit, and you also meet the criteria for Carer's Allowance, then you may be eligible to have a carer premium added to your benefits. It is worth £45.60 a week.

If you already receive Carer's Allowance, then you should automatically get the carer premium with your Universal Credit.

• Find out more: benefits in later life