A photothermographic element has on a support a photosensitive layer and a non-photosensitive layer containing (1) a base precursor, (2) a base-bleachable dye or a salt thereof, and (3) a binder. A constituent layer on the same side of the support as the non-photosensitive layer contains (4) a water-soluble polymer other than gelatin. The element is improved in coating surface quality and minimized in residual color.