Disability Allowance suspended before Mandatory Review date

Clients getting Disability Allowance are always notified about their Mandatory Review, even if their Disability Allowance is suspended, unless it is suspended due to the client being temporarily overseas or in prison.

MSD must not undertake the Mandatory Review unless the client contacts MSD to resume their Disability Allowance.

If the client contacts MSD before their review date to resume their Disability Allowance, they may be able to get an extension if they need more time to do their Mandatory Review. MSD can resume the benefit before the Mandatory Review has been responded to.

However, if the client contacts MSD on or after their Mandatory Review date, the review must be completed before MSD can resume the benefit.

Example

MSD was notified by NZ police that Wilfred has a warrant for their arrest (risk to public safety) on 1 December 2026. Wilfred's Disability Allowance is suspended on this date.

Wilfred's Mandatory Review date is due on 15 January. Wilfred's Disability Allowance is still suspended when he would have been notified about the review, so he does not get notified.

On 17 January Wilfred tells MSD that they have resolved their warrant to arrest and provides a notice of hearing as evidence.

MSD advises Wilfred's his Mandatory Review for his Disability Allowance was due on 15 January 2027 and that he will need to respond to the Mandatory Review and confirm his circumstances before MSD can resume his Disability Allowance.

On 19 January 2027 Wilfred responds to their Mandatory Review and confirms he has had no change in circumstances and that his costs are still the same.

MSD determines Wilfred continues to qualify for Disability Allowance and the rate payable and completes the Mandatory Review on 19 January 2027. Wilfred's Disability Allowance is resumed from 17 January.

MSD sets Wilfred's next review date 52-weeks from the date the review was completed. Wilfred's next Mandatory Review date is 18 January 2028.