subsistence allowance


noun

money given in advance to a new soldier, employee, etc., to buy food, clothing, and pay for other necessities while awaiting a first pay.
money paid a worker in addition to salary to cover expenses that may be incurred in the performance of the job.
money paid to members of the armed forces in lieu of meals; an allowance for food.

British Dictionary definitions for subsistence allowance

subsistence allowance

noun mainly British

an advance paid to an employee before his pay begins
a payment to an employee to reimburse expenses, as while on assignments