Money
Interim payments
You may be eligible for a one-off payment of £200 per guest to support you whilst your benefit claim is processed. The council will make these payments directly to you, if eligible, after arrival.
Bank account
There are many different banks available in the UK, some have translated pages available in Ukrainian and Russian to make it easier for you to apply. Find out more about opening a bank account here.
Claiming welfare benefits
You will find all the information you need in the Government’s press release about benefit support for those fleeing the war in Ukraine. There is also a section on welfare benefits in the Guidance for Guests.
- How to apply for Universal Credit if you are of working age
- How to apply for pension credit if you are of pension age
Pension Credit gives you extra money to help with your living costs if you are over State Pension age and on a low income. The best way to claim Pension Credit if you are from Ukraine is to call the phone service on 0800 99 1234.
If your circumstances change, you change address or you leave the UK, it is important you report these changes.
How to claim Child Benefit
You can get Child Benefit if you are responsible for bringing up a child who is under 16 or under 20 if they stay in approved education or training.
Only one person can get Child Benefit for a child, it is paid every 4 weeks and there is no limit to how many children you can claim for. If your circumstances change, you change address or you leave the UK, it is important you report these changes.
Disability benefits
If you have a disability, you may wish to check if you qualify for additional benefits.
Cost of living
A reminder to all guests residing with a sponsor/host, please have a discussion about making a contribution towards bills such as gas, electricity and water each month.
Money advice
Money Helper
This is a website provided by the government, giving free and impartial help with money.