Clients transferring from a main benefit to New Zealand Superannuation

If a client meets all qualifications, they may be able to receive a Special Needs Grant if they:

• are currently receiving a main benefit
• are transferring to New Zealand Superannuation and
• require assistance to make the transfer

In some situations clients who transfer to New Zealand Superannuation from a weekly benefit will not experience a reduction in income as they are paid in arrears. If the client is suffering hardship and meets all the qualifications then you may consider a Special Needs Grant.

Unless exceptional circumstances exist, the amount of the grant can be no more than:

• the equivalent of 1 week's main benefit the client was entitled to receive immediately before transferring to New Zealand Superannuation and
• one week's Accommodation Supplement and any other supplementary assistance the client was entitled to receive before the transfer

Special Needs Grants for this purpose are:

• non-recoverable

Where exceptional circumstances exist you can exceed the maximum amount payable.