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Benefit rates: How much you’ll get, and how much you can earn

Benefit rates

What rate of benefit will I be on?

This will depend on your particular benefit, your personal circumstances (for example, if you have any children and if so, how many), and whether you have other income.

For information about the benefit rates that apply from 1 April 2021, visit: www.workandincome.govt.nz and search “April benefit rates”.

If you earn income while on the benefit, this could affect your benefit rate, see below, “How earning money will affect your benefit (‘Abatement’)”.

Annual adjustments of benefit rates

The government usually adjusts all benefit rates once a year, on 1 April.

Upcoming changes to benefit rates

    In May 2021, the government announced an increase of benefit rates. They will be increased over two stages: On 1 July 2021 all main benefits will increase by $20 per adult per week. This will happen automatically so you don’t need to do anything.

    On 1 April 2022, all main benefits will further increase to levels recommended by the Welfare Expert Advisory Group in 2019.

    Families with children get an additional top-up of $15 per adult a week.

    You can also earn more money before your benefit is affected. See below for the new changes to how much you can earn from 1 April 2021.

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Dealing with Work and Income

Where to go for more support

Community Law

www.communitylaw.org.nz

Your local Community Law Centre can provide free initial legal advice and, depending on your situation, may be able to provide ongoing support.

Work and Income

www.workandincome.govt.nz

Phone: 0800 559 009

This website contains information about who qualifies for the different benefits and payments and how to apply for them.

Benefit rates

For information about the benefit rates that apply from 1 April 2021, visit:

www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/benefit-rates/benefit-rates-april-2021.html

Beneficiary advocacy groups

There’s likely to be an advocacy group for beneficiaries in your area. Look for them online. If you’re not able to find one, contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau (see below).

Auckland Action Against Poverty

www.aaap.org.nz

Phone: (09) 634 0591

AAAP provides a free advocacy service for people dealing with Work and Income. They have also published a 30-page “Beneficiary Rights Booklet”, which you can download from their ‘Resources’ page.

Address: 120 Church St, Onehunga, Auckland 1061
Email: advocates@aaap.org.nz

Citizens Advice Bureau

www.cab.org.nz

Phone: 0800 FOR CAB (0800 367 222)

Every Citizens Advice Bureau has volunteers who can provide information, particularly on where to access beneficiary advocacy services.

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