How to Apply for the Carers Element of Universal Credit

Universal Credit offers a provision called the 'Carers Element' for individuals who are responsible for caring for someone with substantial care needs. This additional benefit is designed to offer financial support to carers, acknowledging the vital role they play and compensating them for their time. If you're a carer wondering how to apply for this benefit, this guide will provide you with the necessary steps.

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How Much is the Carers Element (Universal Credit)?

As of the financial year 2023-2024, the Carers Element of Universal Credit is £168.81 per month. This amount is added to your standard Universal Credit payment every month, providing additional support to reflect your responsibilities. It’s important to stay updated through gov.uk, as these rates are subject to annual reviews and adjustments based on various economic factors.

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Who is eligible for the Universal Credit Carer Element?

The Carers Element is available to you if you meet the following criteria

• You are eligible for Universal Credit or are already claiming it
• You care for someone for at least 35 hours a week
• The person you care for receives a qualifying disability benefit such as the middle or highest rate of the Disability Living Allowance care component, the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, or Armed Forces Independence Payment.

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If you do meet these criteria, you may also be eligible for Carer’s Allowance, which you can read more about here.

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Applying for the Carers Element

You can apply for the Carers Element within Universal Credit at the same time you make your overall Universal Credit claim. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

1. Verify Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for the Carers Element. You must be caring for someone at least 35 hours a week, and the person you care for must be receiving one of the qualifying disability benefits as detailed above.
2. Existing Universal Credit Claim: If you already receive Universal Credit, you can add the Carers Element to your claim by logging into your online account. You’ll need to report a change in your circumstances through the journal.
3. New to Universal Credit: If you’re not currently a Universal Credit claimant, you will need to apply for Universal Credit online. During your application, declare your status as a carer. You will fill out details about your caring role, ensuring to provide accurate information about the hours you care and the needs of the person.
4. Evidence: Be prepared to provide evidence if required. This may include details from the person you care for about their benefit entitlement.
5. Interview: You might have to attend an interview with a work coach. This is an opportunity to discuss your situation and ensure that all your caring responsibilities are clearly understood and recorded.
6. Receive Your Benefits: Once your claim or update is processed, the Carers Element will be included in your monthly Universal Credit payment.

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By following these steps, you can ensure that your role as a carer is acknowledged and supported financially through the Universal Credit system. This support not only recognizes the crucial work carers do but also helps maintain their financial stability. If you’re claiming the carer’s element of Universal Credit, you are eligible to apply for the National Carers Card, a secure carers ID that allows you to prove your carer status, get help and understanding from others, and show you are eligible for carer discounts at venues’ discretion. Read more about the National Carers Card and apply here.

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