Benefits and financial support in the UK

Universal Credit Easy Read

If you have refugee status and earn under a certain amount, you can apply for benefits. A benefit provides financial support. 

You can apply for benefits online. Which benefits you apply for will depend on your circumstances.

Universal Credit

Most people of working age will apply for Universal Credit. 

To apply for Universal Credit, submit your claim online here. 

If you are unable to use the online service to apply, you can contact the Universal Credit Helpline. 

If you need one, you can ask for an interpreter when you call. 

At the jobcentre

If you start to claim benefits you will be assigned a 'work coach'. They will support you and help you into work by providing personalised advice using their knowledge of local work opportunities. 

You may need to agree a 'claimant commitment'. This is an agreement between you and your work coach. It sets out what you have agreed to do to prepare for and look for work, or to increase your working it you are already in employment. It is based on your personal circumstances and your benefits may be cut if you do not do what you have agreed to do. 

Integration Loans 

If you are over 18 you can apply for a refugee integration loan. Integration loans may be used to pay for things like: 

• A rent deposit or rent for housing 
• Household items
• Education and training for work 

If you are applying by yourself, you can borrow between £100 and £500. If you are applying with your partner, you can borrow between £100 and £780. 

You cannot use this loan to pay for

• debts
• travel costs for family members to join you in the UK. 

You may be asked to prove how you spent the loan. You may have to repay it in full straight away if you do not use it for the reason you said on your application. 

You must tell the Jobcentre if you get an integration loan. 

You can apply for this loan online here.