Benefits, pensions and financial support
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Benefits and allowances
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Apply for a benefit
You need to apply for most benefits online, then meet with a case manager before your application is accepted and you start being paid.
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Reporting changes when you’re getting a benefit
If you get a payment from Work and Income, you must tell them if your situation or details change. This helps make sure you get the right payment.
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What counts as income for benefits
When you get a benefit or allowance from Work and Income, you need to tell them what other income you get — both regular and one-off payments.
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Community Services Card
A Community Services Card can reduce healthcare costs. Anyone on a low income who is aged 16 or over, a NZ citizen or permanent resident and normally lives here, can apply.
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NZ Superannuation and the Veteran’s Pension
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Payment dates for NZ pensions
NZ Super and Veteran’s Pension are paid every 2 weeks on a Tuesday. If there’s a public holiday, payments are made earlier.
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Choose the right tax code when you get a pension
When you start getting NZ Super you might still have other sources of income. You need to make sure you’re using the correct tax code.
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ACC payments when you get a NZ pension
You can get ACC payments and NZ Super payments at the same time, but only for 2 years.
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Apply for NZ Superannuation
NZ Superannuation is a payment available to eligible New Zealand citizens and residents who are 65 or older.
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Apply for the Veteran’s Pension
If you’ve served in NZ’s Armed Forces, you may be able to get a Veteran’s Pension when you turn 65.
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If you get a pension from another country
If you lived or worked in another country you may be able to get their social security pension. When you apply for NZ Superannuation or the Veteran's Pension, apply for these pensions at the same time.
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If your situation changes
If you’re getting NZ Superannuation or the Veteran’s Pension, you must let Work and Income know of changes to personal information such as your address, your relationship status or your living arrangements.
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Specific living situations
Your NZ Super payment rate depends on your living situation. Check what payment rates and support apply to you.
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Money, income and support for retirement
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Income after you turn 65
When you turn 65, you may have income from several sources. This can affect the tax you pay and any benefits or allowances you can get.
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Financial help and benefits if you’re over 65
Most New Zealanders over 65 can get NZ Super. For lower incomes, you may also be able to get government help to pay for regular costs or unexpected expenses.
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If you cannot get NZ Superannuation or other benefits
If you cannot get any other financial support from the government, you can apply for help with day-to-day living costs and health.
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Getting help with your budget
There are community services that can help you manage your finances.
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