Benefits and allowances
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Applying for a benefit
You can apply for most benefits online. In most cases you’ll need to meet with a case manager before your application is accepted and you start being paid.
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What you have to do when you're getting a benefit
If you're getting a benefit, NZ Superannuation or a Veteran's Pension from Work and Income, you must let them know if your contact details or circumstances change.
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What counts as income for benefits
When you apply to Work and Income for a benefit or allowance, and while you're receiving it, you need to tell them if you get other income — either regular payments or a one-off.
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Advance Payment of Benefit
Work and Income can advance up to 6 weeks’ benefit or pension to help pay for essential costs that crop up. Anyone on a low income, who gets a benefit or pension from Work and Income, can apply. It’s repaid in instalments.
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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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Emergency Benefit
If you can't support yourself and you're not able to get any other help from Work and Income, you can apply for the Emergency Benefit.
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Recoverable Assistance Payment
A Recoverable Assistance Payment can help with urgent costs that you can’t afford. Anyone on a low income who isn’t receiving a benefit or pension from Work and Income can apply.
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Special Needs Grant
A Special Needs Grant from Work and Income can help you cover essential or emergency costs that you can't afford. Anyone on a low income can apply and you don’t usually have to repay it.
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Temporary Additional Support
If you can't pay for what you need you can apply to Work and Income for Temporary Additional Support. This is a weekly payment that can last for up to 13 weeks and you don't have to be on a benefit.
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