DWP issues updated advice for refugees wanting to claim Universal Credit and other benefits
The DWP has issued updated guidance for refugees coming to the UK who are looking to apply for Universal Credit and other benefits. When first arriving in the UK, refugees receive asylum support from the Home Office in the form of money and/or accommodation. However, the Government explained[1] that this comes to an end 28 days after getting what is called a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
In its new update, the DWP explained what people in that position need to do tos secure income and accommodation. It said three things were important – applying for benefits, getting a bank account and arranging housing. The BRP entitles holders to apply for benefits.
The latest guidance, released on Friday, December 1, said it had been updated to explain that DWP will tell applicants how to apply for a National Insurance number as part of their claim for benefits.
Applying for benefits
The DWP said: “Now that you have leave to remain in the UK you can get the same type of support as British citizens. This includes money from the Government called benefits. A benefit is money for people who need help because they have a low income.
“It is important you apply for benefits as soon as possible to make sure you get the money you need and there is no gap in your income. If you’re getting payment or living in accommodation arranged by the Home Office, you should be contacted by someone from Migrant Help to see if you need help applying for benefits. If not, you should apply for benefits online[2].”
National Insurance Number (NINO)
The DWP said: “Your NINO will be on the back of your BRP and looks like this: QQ123456A.
If there is no NINO on your BRP, you must contact the Home Office immediately. “You do not need a NINO for your benefits claim to be made but if you do not have a NINO you need to tell DWP at the start of your claim. DWP will tell you how to apply for a NINO as part of your claim for benefits.”
Information you’ll need to claim benefits
You’ll need the following information:
- name
- address
- date of birth
- bank details (you can still claim if you do not have a bank account)
- mobile phone number
- email address
- details of where you’re living
How to claim
The DWP said: “You can apply for benefits online[3].
Which benefits you apply for will depend on your circumstances. Most people of working age will apply for Universal Credit. If you’re unable to use the online service to apply, you can contact the Universal Credit helpline[4].
To apply for Pension Credit[5], a weekly payment from the government that you receive when you reach a certain age, you can contact the Pension Service: Telephone: 0800 731 7898Textphone: 0800 731 7339Monday to Friday 8am to 7.30pm(except public holidays) Calls to these numbers are free from a landline and usually free from a mobile phone.
If English is not your first language you can ask for an interpreter when you call any of the phone numbers.
Further details, including how to get a bank account and apply for housing, are available on the DWP’s updated page[6].
References
- ^ Government explained (www.gov.uk)
- ^ you should apply for benefits online (www.gov.uk)
- ^ apply for benefits online (www.gov.uk)
- ^ Universal Credit helpline (www.gov.uk)
- ^ Pension Credit (www.gov.uk)
- ^ on the DWP’s updated page (www.gov.uk)