Transfer between benefits

A transfer between benefits can occur when a client qualifies for Emergency Benefit while currently receiving another benefit.

There is no stand-down imposed for clients who:

• transfer to Emergency Benefit from another benefit type or
• are included as a partner in another benefit type and are now applying as the primary client

Child Disability Allowance, Unsupported Childs Benefit and Orphans Benefit are also a benefit in this situation. Where Child Disability Allowance, Unsupported Childs Benefit or Orphans Benefit has been paid and the child now qualifies for Emergency Benefit, no stand-down is imposed.

An initial stand-down is imposed, if a client receiving a benefit is to be included as a partner in a new application for Emergency Benefit.

There are situations where a partner can continue to receive payment of Sole Parent Support during the initial stand-down period where they are included as a partner in a new application for Emergency Benefit.

Generally in the 3 examples below the payment of Sole Parent Support can be continued up to the actual commencement date of the Emergency Benefit.

Example 1
A client has been receiving Sole Parent Support and is now to be included in a new application for Emergency Benefit as a partner an initial stand-down is imposed on the Emergency Benefit.

Example 2
A client has been in prison or on remand for 31 days or more and has applied for an Emergency Benefit. On release, the client moves in with their former partner who was receiving Sole Parent Support. An initial stand-down is imposed on the Emergency Benefit.

Example 3
A couple with children separated and the mother received Sole Parent Support and the father was working. The father's job ceased and the couple are now living together again. The father applied for Emergency Benefit and an initial stand-down is imposed. If there has been a delay in applying for Emergency Benefit then payment of Sole Parent Support may be cancelled from the date after the client has reconciled.

When a non-beneficiary client receiving Extra Help such as Accommodation Supplement or Disability Allowance applies for Emergency Benefit, it is not regarded as a transfer between benefits. An initial stand-down is imposed.

For more information see:

• Processing standards Client transfers to another benefit type [no link find out why]
• Core policy Relationship status for benefit
• Assistance during an initial stand-down and/or benefit application process