Carer's Allowances and other payments

Carer's Allowance is paid to people carrying out alternative care or carer support. It is charged as income when assessing entitlement to a benefit.

When a client can show that they have actual costs associated with the care function, these are deducted from the income figure.

If travel allowance is paid as a general allowance to all carers at the same rate, and forms part of an employment package, then this is also charged as income with the Carer's Allowance.

If a payment is made to the individual carer as a specific reimbursement of actual identified travel costs, then this is not treated as income.

Idea Services board payments, less expenses directly related to the care function are charged as income. Expenses must be verified and you should ask for confirmation from Idea Services that they must be paid by the caregiver.

Whenever a client can show they have incurred actual costs associated with the care function, these should be deducted from the income figure.

Funded Family Care payments are made to family members caring for the disabled person with high or very high needs and are considered income for the carer. See Whaikaha Disability services

Payments may affect the assistance the carer can get from MSD (including non-beneficiary assistance).