When you get a job offer
Before you accept a job, you need to agree on your pay, hours and working conditions. You can apply for money to help pay the costs of starting a new job.
Before you accept a job offer
Take time to consider the offer before you accept it.
If you’re starting on the minimum wage, check which type applies to you — adult, starting-out and training.
If you’re leaving a job you already have
Get the details of the new job in writing before you hand in your notice at your current job. If something goes wrong and your new employer withdraws the offer, you could end up being out of work.
Talk to your boss before giving them your resignation letter — Careers NZ provides examples and templates. Keep the letter brief and aim to leave on good terms.
If you’re on a benefit
You need to tell Work and Income as soon as possible when you get a new job.
Your employment contract and rights
Every worker must have an employment agreement — also called a contract. It has the terms and conditions of the job.
Negotiating your employment contract
Your contract must give you at least the legal minimum rights.
Read your employment contract before signing it. An employer usually gives you an employment agreement to review when they offer you a job. They should also give you time to understand it and get any advice you need.
Get help with your contract
Trade unions are organisations that protect the rights of workers. They may be able to help you with general information about employment contracts.
The Citizens Advice Bureau gives free advice to anybody who needs it. They can help you understand your employment rights.
Citizens Advice Bureau — employment and business
Financial help when you start work
You might be able to get financial help from Work and Income when you start a new job.
Before you start work
You can apply for money to help when you start a job — for example, relocation costs and living expenses until your first pay.
Transition to Work Grant — Work and Income
If you need to move to another part of New Zealand (excluding Auckland) to take up a full-time job, you may be able to get $5,000 from Work and Income to cover your moving costs.
After you start work
Get advice on ways to manage your time, learn new skills and budget your money.
If you have a disability
You can get money to make changes to your workplace — for example, ramps and new computers.
- Modifications to your workplace — Work and Income
- Financial help for people with a disability or illness
Utility links and page information
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