Absence from New Zealand

Training Incentive Allowance can be paid as an ongoing payment for the necessary and reasonable costs of attending a course such as childcare, other care, transport or disability related costs.

If the client is overseas and continues to get benefit payments, Training Incentive Allowance can continue for up to 28 days.

However, if the client does not qualify for continued payment under the absence from New Zealand rules then the client is not entitled to their benefit or Training Incentive Allowance.

If the client is leaving New Zealand permanently Training Incentive Allowance will stop from the day after departure.

If a lump-sum payment has been made for costs the client must request from the Course Provider a refund of the course fees paid.

If the Course Provider provides a refund, or a partial refund, this must be repaid to the Ministry of Social Development to offset the amount paid as a lump sum through the Training Incentive Allowance.