This chapter investigates a specific form of the everyday borders faced by asylum seekers in the United Kingdom (UK), focusing on the financial barriers imposed by asylum support and the restrictions around access to work. By examining the intersection of surviving and living within the asylum process, the chapter explores how these barriers contribute to the marginalisation and control of asylum seekers, pushing them into a survival mindset. Drawing on empirical research, including 21 semi-structured interviews with asylum seekers, refugees, NGO workers, and volunteers in the UK, the research highlights the impact of financial limitations on the daily lives of asylum seekers. My investigation reveals how the financial limitations enforced by the asylum system led to the development of a survival mentality, an idea explored through the experiences shared by my participants. At the same time, work can be constructed as the beginning of reaching a state of living. This chapter demonstrates that the asylum support system in the UK confines asylum seekers to a state of bare life and stuckedness extending their isolation and dependency on the system. The findings underline the barrier that prevents asylum seekers from achieving economic autonomy, a sense of purpose, and social inclusion. Thus, illustrating how asylum seekers are stuck in a cycle of survival rather than being able to fully live and participate in society through work.