When a person is sent to prison, their benefits and pensions can be affected.
- State benefits: Individuals who are imprisoned will have their state benefits suspended during their time in prison. This can include benefits such as welfare, unemployment benefits, and housing assistance. The suspension is typically based on the premise that the person is receiving free accommodation, food, and healthcare while in prison. There are some benefits that for very short sentences will remain in place.
- Pensions: The state’s old age pension is stopped whilst in prison. Private pensions will continue to be received.
- Dependent benefits: If the person in prison is the primary recipient of benefits, such as child support or other dependent benefits, those benefits may be affected. Alternate arrangements may need to be made to ensure support for dependents while the person is incarcerated.
- Reapplication upon release: In many cases, individuals will need to reapply for benefits and state pensions upon their release from prison.