Additional Elements of Universal Credit - What are the additional elements?
Universal Credit has extra payments that can be added on top of your standard allowance if you're eligible.
- Last reviewed 25 February 2026
Your Universal Credit is made up of:
- A standard allowance, which is the basic amount for you, or you and your partner.
- Additional elements, which are extra amounts depending on your circumstances.
You can receive more than one element at the same time.
Additional elements are not added automatically. You need to tell the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) about changes in your circumstances.
For example, if you start caring for someone, you will need to report this change to the DWP so they can add the Carer’s Element if you qualify.
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