## The Element

Use `Element` instances to collect sensitive information in your checkout flow.

## The Payment Element

The [Payment Element](https://docs.stripe.com/payments/payment-element.md) is an embeddable component for securely collecting payment details. The Payment Element supports dozens of payment methods with a single integration.

## Create the Payment Element

`elements.create(type: 'payment', options?: object)`

This method creates an instance of the Payment Element.

- `type`
The type of Element being created, which is `payment` in this case.
- `options`
Options for creating the Payment Element.
- `layout`
Specify the layout for the Payment Element. If you only pass a layout type (`'accordion'` or `‘tabs’`) without any additional parameters, the Payment Element renders using that layout and the default values associated with it. An object can also be passed to specify the layout with additional configuration.
- `type`
Defines the layout to render the Payment Element.
- `defaultCollapsed`
Controls if the Payment Element renders in a collapsed state (where no payment method is selected by default). When you leave this `undefined`, Stripe renders the experience that it determines will have the best conversion.
- `radios`
Controls when to render each Payment Method with a radio input next to its logo. The radios visually indicate the current selection of the Payment Element. Defaults to `'auto'`.
- `'always'` — Always show radio inputs.
- `'never'` — Never show radio inputs.
- `'if_multiple'` — Show radio inputs only when there are multiple payment methods available. When there is only one payment method, no radio input is displayed.
- `'auto'` — Stripe determines the best experience to optimize conversion. _This property is only applicable to the `accordion` layout._
- `spacedAccordionItems`
When `true`, the Payment Methods render as standalone buttons with space in between them. _This property is only applicable to the `accordion` layout._
- `visibleAccordionItemsCount`
Sets the max