Asylum seekers and refugees: applying for benefits
Information about the types of welfare benefits available in Northern Ireland for refugees, and how to apply. If you are seeking asylum in Northern Ireland you will have no access to public funds, including access to benefits.
Applying for benefits
The UK has a welfare system to help those who face financial hardship, or who have specific needs.
Your local Jobs and Benefits office will be able to help you find out which benefits you may be able to access. Details can be found at Jobs and Benefits offices or at JobApplyNI
Benefits include:
- Universal Credit – a payment for those of working age, to help with your living costs if you are on a low income - you could be working (including self-employed or part-time) or be out of work
- Pension Credit - extra money to help with your living costs if you are over the age of 66 and on a low income - applications for Pensions is online or via telephone
- Disability benefits – extra money to help with additional costs if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability
- Carers Allowance – extra money if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week
- Child Benefit – extra money to help with the cost of raising a child
Find out more about the types of benefits you could receive at the following links:
You can apply for Universal Credit online. You will need to create an account to make a claim. You must complete your claim within 28 days of creating your account or you will have to start again.
To apply online you’ll need:
- your bank, building society or credit union account details
- an email address
- access to a phone
You will also have to prove your identity. You’ll need some identity documents for this, for example your:
- passport
- debit or credit card
If you need help with your Universal Credit claim you can call the Universal Credit helpline on:
- freephone: 0800 012 1331
The factsheets at the following link have information about claiming benefits and looking for work:
The main method of paying benefits is into a bank account by direct credit transfer (called ‘direct payment’). This means the money goes straight into a bank account in your name. If you make a claim, you will be asked for details of the bank account you want to use.
You can have your benefit paid into:
- a standard bank or building society account (for example, a current account)
- a basic bank account (also called an introductory account)
Find out more information about opening a bank account:
Video about Benefits
For those arriving in Northern Ireland you can view the following video about benefits.
Help available
The following organisations and community groups provide further support:
- Building Communities Resource Centre (BCRC)
- Foyle Vineyard Church
- Trussell (Food banks)
- Vineyard Compassion
- Welcome Churches