Guidance for new refugees
3. Applying for benefits
As soon as you’re granted refugee status, you will be able to apply for benefits.
When you can apply for benefits
You can apply for benefits when you have refugee status.
There may be a gap between your asylum support ending and your first benefit payment.
If you do not have enough money while you wait for your first payment, you may be able to get an advance on your first benefit payment.
Before you apply
You will need to check your National Insurance (NI) number, if you have one.
You can see your NI number on the back of your biometric residence permit (BRP). See an example of the format below.
Example NI number: QQ123456A
If there is no NI number on your BRP, contact the Home Office immediately.
You do not need an NI number to claim benefits. But if you don't have one, you need to tell the DWP at the start of your claim.
Information you'll need when you apply
You'll need your:
- name
- address
- home information (where you live)
- date of birth
- bank details (you can still claim if you do not have a bank account)
- mobile phone number
- email address
Submit your claim
You can apply for benefits online.
The benefits you can apply for will depend on your circumstances. View the type of benefits you can apply for.
If you're old enough to work
It is likely you would need to apply for Universal Credit.
If you can't use the online service, contact the Universal Credit helpline (usually free to call).
If you need an interpreter, you can ask for one.