Good and sufficient reason for not completing Jobseeker Profile within timeframe for partners
A partner may have a good and sufficient reason for being unable to complete their Jobseeker Profile within 20 working days. If MSD determines that they have a good and sufficient reason, a partner can be given more time to complete their Jobseeker Profile.
A good and sufficient reason may include, but is not limited to:
- the partner suddenly had to go to hospital
- there was a death or illness in the partner’s family
- MSD required additional time to determine that the partner can only be granted Emergency Benefit with conditions of grant similar to work obligations
- the partner had to leave the country for an emergency reason
A partner should advise MSD of their circumstances as soon as reasonably possible.
MSD must use its discretion to determine how much extra time would be reasonable for the partner to complete their Jobseeker Profile. This can happen before or after the 20 working day timeframe lapses, depending on when the reason occurs and when the partner notifies MSD.
Example
Wilson and Jackie apply for a benefit on 5 August 2025. They have 20 working days to complete their application, and their lapse date is 1 September.
Jackie meets the criteria for Jobseeker Support and is assigned the pre-benefit requirement to complete her Jobseeker Profile on 5 August.
Wilson does not have a residence class visa but is applying for residency and is compelled to remain in New Zealand. MSD can't assign any pre-benefit requirement until it's clear what Wilson might qualify for.
On 18 August, 10 working days after Wilson’s date of first contact, MSD assesses his application and determines that he would be eligible for Emergency Benefit with conditions of grant that are similar to the full-time work obligations for Jobseeker Support.
Because MSD required additional time to assess his application, they provide Wilson more time to complete his Jobseeker Profile before his benefit application lapses. He is given 10 extra working days, and his application will now lapse on 15 September.
