Recoverable Assistance Payment

You may be able to get a Recoverable Assistance Payment if you:

• have an urgent and essential need
• have no other way to meet this cost
• are either:
  • a New Zealand citizen, or
  • a permanent resident, or
  • ordinarily in New Zealand while holding a residence class visa.

It also depends on:

• how much you and your partner earn
• any money or assets you and your partner have.

How much you get depends on your situation and what you need help with.

Examples of costs we can help with are:

• ambulance subscription fees
• attendance at funerals and tangihanga
• beds, chairs and tables
• car repairs
• child carseat
• clothing
• costs to end your tenancy early, or sublet or assign your tenancy
• dentures and hearing aids
• driver licence
• electricity, gas or water
• fire loss or burglary
• fridges, freezes and washing machines
• glasses
• school costs
• school stationery
• school uniforms
• tenancy tribunal fees
• travel if you're stranded.

We may be able to help with other costs, it depends on your situation. If you're not sure whether we can help, talk with us about your situation.

You need to call us on 0800 88 99 00

We'll talk with you to understand your situation and how we can help. We'll let you know what information you need to provide and how to get this to us.

If your application is approved, the money will be paid either:

• directly to the shop or provider, or
• onto a payment card.