A carrier structure for a backrest for a vehicle seat, has at least a carrier element, where on the carrier element at least one positioning element, in particular a pre-positioning element, is arranged on the carrier top side and has at least one opening for receiving a headrest holder. And, at least one latching element is arranged on at least one of a carrier underside and/or a lateral carrier side. A backrest and a method for mounting the backrest is also provided.