Financial support
If you are not making enough money to pay your bills, the Government may be able to help you.
Special hardship
You are responsible for meeting your own financial needs for the first two years of residence. However, in circumstances of special hardship, new residents can apply for financial support from Work and Income. Find out more at www.workandincome.govt.nz
Working for Families
If your family income is below a certain level, you may be eligible for Working for Families tax credits. Working for Families is available for low to middle income families with children aged 18 years or younger who are not financially independent and who are living at home. Temporary permit or visa holders or those unlawfully in New Zealand are not eligible. Find out more at www.workingforfamilies.govt.nz
Budgeting advice
If you need help organising your budget, you can contact an organisation like Family Budgeting. This is a nationwide free-phone service that can help you with your budgeting questions. Their number is 0508 BUDGETLINE (0508 283 438).
You can talk with an experienced, qualified budget adviser who can offer personal, confidential budget advice between 8.00am and 5.00pm, Mondays to Fridays. Find out more at www.familybudgeting.org.nz.
You can also contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau.
