Prisoners on release - Benefits when released from prison
This guide tells you what benefits you can get if you are on release from prison
- Last reviewed 17 April 2026
Benefits when released from prison
You can claim most benefits in the normal way. Use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator to check which benefits you may be entitled to.
Before you leave prison, you might be interviewed by a DWP liaison officer who should inform you what benefits you might be able to claim.
Number used to record your national insurance contributions and tax paid. See full definition
You will need a Number used to record your national insurance contributions and tax paid. See full definition to claim benefits. If you haven’t already got one, visit the GOV.UK site for guidance on how to apply for a Number used to record your national insurance contributions and tax paid. See full definition .
You will also need to prove your identity, so make sure you keep form B79 (notification of discharge from prison), sometimes known as discharge papers, when you leave prison.
Was this page helpful?
Tell us the problem
*Required
Thank you
Thank you for your feedback. If you would like to tell us more, please visit our contact us page.