Special Needs Grant

Generally, you may be able to get a Special Needs Grant if you:

• have urgent and necessary needs
• have no other way to meet these costs
• are either:
  • a New Zealand citizen, or
  • a permanent resident, or
  • ordinarily in New Zealand while holding a residence class visa.

When you have an emergency cost, we'll also look at:

• whether you knew the cost was going to come up
• whether you could have covered the cost yourself
• how the Special Needs Grant will help your situation.

There may also be extra criteria you need to meet depending on the essential or emergency cost you apply for.

It may also depend on:

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

Food

We may be able to help you if you have no other way to pay for food eg, no money in the bank and no cash assets. 

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

Essential costs could include things like:

• driver licence
• dental treatment
• bedding
• food
• health travel costs
• effluent treatment system maintenance and repair
• laser therapy to remove birthmarks
• vasectomies
• wigs and hairpieces
• breast pump if you can't breastfeed because you or your baby have health issues.

Emergency costs could include things like:

• ambulance fees
• medical treatment
• medical equipment
• water tank refill.

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.