Redirection of benefit payment

Redirection of benefit payment is when part or all a client's benefit payment is paid directly to another person or organisation, instead of to the client.

Redirection of benefit can only be done when there is good cause.

In specific situations you can redirect a person's benefit if you consider there is 'good cause'.

For more information see:

• Good cause
• Specific situations when there is good cause to redirect

Generally, you cannot pay any part of a client's benefit to another party.

The exceptions to this rule are:

• when MSD is legally required to pay the benefit or a portion of the benefit to another party, for example Court deduction notices or attachment orders
  For more information see: Deductions
• when the benefit is being paid at a couple rate and the benefit is split between the client and their partner (apportionment of benefit) or
• a redirection of benefit payment for good cause

Note even when good cause exists, MSD is not always required to approve the redirection payment.

For more information see:

In certain circumstances, part or all a client's benefit can be paid to another person or organisation as a redirection of benefit. This:

• can only be done if there is good cause and
• will generally only be a last resort - the client should have explored alternatives and
• is discretionary

Note the granting of a redirection of benefit does not give the recipient of the payments any other decision-making powers over the client's affairs, or grant them access to personal information about the client. They are not considered an agent.