Liverpool

1. Overview of Benefits for Immigrants in the UK

In the UK, certain public funds and benefits are available to individuals depending on their immigration status. These benefits are designed to provide financial support for housing, living costs, and other essential needs. However, many immigrants are subject to a condition called "No Recourse to Public Funds" (NRPF), which restricts access to most benefits.

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2. Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for benefits depends on your immigration status, residency, and financial circumstances. Below are the key factors:

a. Immigration Status

• British Citizens: Eligible for all benefits if they meet other criteria (e.g., income thresholds).
• Settled Status (Indefinite Leave to Remain - ILR): Eligible for benefits.
• Pre-Settled Status (EU Settlement Scheme): May be eligible for some benefits, such as Universal Credit, if you meet additional criteria (e.g., being a worker or self-employed).
• Refugees and Asylum Seekers:
  • Refugees with granted status are eligible for benefits.
  • Asylum seekers are not eligible for mainstream benefits but may receive Asylum Support from the Home Office.
• Work Visa Holders, Students, and Visitors: Typically have NRPF and are not eligible for benefits.

b. Residency Requirements

• You must usually pass the Habitual Residence Test (HRT) to claim benefits. This test assesses whether you are living in the UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man as your main home.

c. Financial Circumstances

• Many benefits are means-tested, meaning your income and savings will determine eligibility.

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3. Types of Benefits Available

Below are some key benefits immigrants in Liverpool may be eligible for, depending on their status:

a. Universal Credit

• A monthly payment to help with living costs.
• Eligibility: Low income, unemployed, or unable to work due to health conditions.
• Pre-Settled Status holders must meet additional criteria (e.g., being a worker).

b. Housing Benefit

• Helps with rent costs.
• Eligibility: Usually for those on low income or receiving other benefits like Universal Credit.

c. Child Benefit

• Financial support for raising children.
• Eligibility: Available to those with Settled Status or Pre-Settled Status (if working).

d. Asylum Support

• Provided by the Home Office to asylum seekers.
• Includes housing and a weekly allowance (£45 per person as of 2023).

e. Council Tax Reduction

• A discount on council tax for low-income households.
• Eligibility: Based on income and immigration status.

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4. Application Procedures

The process for applying for benefits varies depending on the type of benefit. Below is a general guide:

a. Universal Credit

1. Online Application: Apply via the official UK Government website (https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit).
2. Identity Verification: Provide proof of identity (passport, biometric residence permit).
3. Interview: Attend an interview at your local Jobcentre Plus in Liverpool.
4. Decision: You will receive a decision within 5 weeks.

b. Housing Benefit

1. Contact Liverpool City Council: Applications are managed by the local council.
2. Submit Documents: Provide proof of income, tenancy agreement, and immigration status.
3. Decision: Processing times vary but typically take a few weeks.

c. Child Benefit

1. Complete Form CH2: Download the form from the UK Government website.
2. Submit by Post: Send the completed form to the Child Benefit Office.
3. Decision: Processing can take up to 12 weeks.

d. Asylum Support

1. Apply to the Home Office: Use the ASF1 form.
2. Assessment: The Home Office will assess your financial situation.
3. Decision: Support is usually provided quickly if you qualify.

e. Council Tax Reduction

1. Apply via Liverpool City Council: Use the online portal or contact the council directly.
2. Provide Evidence: Submit proof of income, residency, and immigration status.
3. Decision: Processing times vary.

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5. Associated Costs

• Application Fees: Most benefit applications are free. However, immigration-related applications (e.g., ILR) may have fees.
• Legal Advice: If you need help with applications, legal advice may cost between £100–£300 per hour unless you qualify for free legal aid.

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6. Required Documentation

The following documents are commonly required when applying for benefits:

• Proof of Identity: Passport, Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), or other official ID.
• Proof of Immigration Status: Visa, Settled/Pre-Settled Status confirmation, or Home Office letter.
• Proof of Residency: Utility bills, tenancy agreement, or council tax bill.
• Proof of Income: Payslips, bank statements, or proof of self-employment.
• National Insurance Number: Required for most benefits.
• Additional Documents: Depending on the benefit, you may need to provide medical evidence, childcare costs, or other supporting documents.

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7. Local Resources and Considerations in Liverpool

Liverpool has several resources to support immigrants with benefit applications and related issues:

a. Liverpool City Council

• The council provides advice and support for housing, council tax, and other local benefits.
• Website: Liverpool City Council
• Address: Cunard Building, Water Street, Liverpool, L3 1AH
• Phone: 0151 233 3000

b. Citizens Advice Liverpool

• Offers free, confidential advice on benefits, housing, and immigration.
• Website: Citizens Advice Liverpool
• Phone: 0808 278 7840

c. Refugee and Asylum Seeker Support

• Asylum Link Merseyside: Provides support for asylum seekers, including help with Asylum Support applications.
  • Website: Asylum Link Merseyside
  • Address: St Anne’s Centre, 7 Overbury Street, Liverpool, L7 3HJ
  • Phone: 0151 709 1713
• Refugee Women Connect: Focuses on supporting refugee and asylum-seeking women.
  • Website: Refugee Women Connect

d. Legal Aid Providers

• Some solicitors in Liverpool offer free or low-cost legal advice for immigration and benefits issues. Check the Legal Aid Agency website for a list of providers.

e. Jobcentre Plus

• Local Jobcentres can assist with Universal Credit and other benefit applications.
• Liverpool Jobcentre Plus locations include:
  • Liverpool City Jobcentre: 14 Williamson Square, Liverpool, L1 1EB
  • Toxteth Jobcentre: 9 High Park Street, Liverpool, L8 8DX

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8. Additional Considerations

• Language Support: Many local organizations offer translation and interpretation services for non-English speakers.
• NRPF Support: If you have NRPF, you may still be eligible for support from charities or local authorities in cases of destitution.
• Appeals: If your benefit application is denied, you can appeal the decision. Seek advice from Citizens Advice or a legal aid solicitor.

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This guide provides a detailed overview of immigration support related to benefits in Liverpool. If you need further assistance, consider reaching out to the local resources mentioned above.