Any other reason
There may be a number of different reasons where, due to the client's individual circumstances, a client is in hardship due to being unable to earn a sufficient livelihood for themselves (and any dependent family).
It is reasonable to consider an Emergency Benefit when MSD is are satisfied that the client:
- cannot get another benefit
- cannot earn a sufficient livelihood
- is in hardship
MSD must also consider whether:
- they have contributed to their hardship
- they can change their circumstances to alleviate their hardship and
- their circumstances justify payment
Note 'Any other reason' is very wide and is the last resort where a client cannot earn a sufficient livelihood and is not eligible for another benefit or Emergency Benefit due to their health condition, injury or disability, domestic circumstances or age.
Clients from Tokelau, Niue, Cook Islands or Australia
Clients from Tokelau, Niue, the Cook Islands or Australia who have a residence class visa or New Zealand citizenship are generally considered lawfully resident and present in New Zealand.
For more information see:
- Core policy People in specific circumstances - residence criteria
- Person serving their sentence of imprisonment in a psychiatric hospital
- Person detained under a Public Protection Order
- Partner receiving New Zealand Superannuation in residential care
- Seasonal assistance during short breaks
- Lockouts
- Clients with permanent residence or citizenship
- Clients without citizenship or a residence class visa
- Unlawful residents and clients in New Zealand temporarily
- Determining the reason for insufficient livelihood
- Conditions of grant
- Contributed to hardship
Legislation
- Emergency benefit: discretionary grant on ground of hardship section 63 Social Security Act 2018
