Universal Credit (UC) - Additional Elements
Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit payment for people of working-age who are on a low income, out of work or can't work.
- Last reviewed 25 February 2026
All of these elements are Eligibility depends on the amount of income and capital you have. See full definition . The Government department that is responsible for employment and welfare See full definition adds up all the elements you are entitled to. This is called your maximum amount of Universal Credit. After that, your income is taken away from your maximum amount to work out the amount of Universal Credit you are entitled to. No element is protected from deductions.
Your household may qualify for more than one of these:
- Carer's Element
- Child Element
- Childcare Costs Element
- Housing Costs Element
- Limited Capability for Work (claims before 3 April 2017)
- Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity Element
- Transitional Protection Element
For more information, visit our Additional Elements of Universal Credit guide.
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