People seeking asylum are excluded from claiming mainstream welfare benefits and in most cases from working. This section explains the support available while an asylum claim is ongoing.
Section 98 support is a form of temporary support that is provided to asylum-seekers who appear to be destitute and who have applied for s95 support and are awaiting a decision. This factsheet explores who is eligible and how to apply.
This factsheet provides an overview of additional payments and a guide on how to apply for them. Pregnant women and parents with dependent children are entitled to receive some extra payments to their support package. People with an ‘exceptional’ need for additional support can also apply for extra payments. The Home Office does not provide additional payments to people on sch10 support. Updated December 2025