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You can continue to claim benefits when you are homeless, even if you do not have an address. Some benefits are only available if you are actively seeking work. You may also be able to claim a crisis loan to help you in an emergency.
Applying for benefits
To apply for most benefits you will need to fill in a specific form, which you can get from your local Social Security or Jobs & Benefit Office.
Complete and return it as soon as possible. Keep copies of everything and get a receipt in case of problems in the future. You will usually need to give:
- your national insurance number,
- proof of identity (for example your birth certificate),
- proof of your income or benefits (bank statements or wage slips).
Your claim could be delayed if you do not provide all the information the forms ask for. The rules on benefits are complicated.
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Claiming benefits when homeless
You do not lose the right to claim benefits because you are homeless. You can continue to collect your income support or jobseeker's allowance by using a 'care of' address. This could be the address of a friend, relative or a day centre.
You may have to set up a bank account to receive your benefits. You can set up a basic account for your benefits at your local post office. When you set up your post office account you will get a plastic card instead of a benefits book. This card allows you to access your money at any post office.
You may have to be actively seeking work to claim some benefits. People sleeping on the streets may find it harder to stay in work or to get a job. However, the JobCentre or your local Jobs and Benefits Office should still help you look for work.
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Who can get a crisis loan?
You must be at least 16 years of age to apply for a crisis loan, but you do not have to be claiming other benefits. A crisis loan is available if you need money because of an emergency or disaster. It could help you pay for:
- food,
- clothing,
- charges for rent in a hostel,
- rent in advance.
You must show that the health and safety of your household would be at risk if you do not get the loan.
Your chances of getting a crisis loan (and the amount you get) depend on the available Social Security Agency budget and your personal circumstances. Your loan is reduced if:
- you have savings over £500,
- you have savings over £1000 if you or your partner are over 60,
- you have not paid back a previous social fund loan.
If you are on benefits the loan will be paid back by a deduction from your income support or jobseekers allowance. The loan must be paid back within 104 weeks.
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Applying for a crisis loan
Crisis loans are given by the social fund and the amount available is limited. You can apply at your local Social Security Office or Jobs and Benefits Office. Claim forms are also available on the Social Security Agency site .
The rules about getting a crisis loan are complicated. However, an adviser may be able to increase your chances of getting a crisis loan.
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Homelessness Checklist
