Detention in or transfer to a psychiatric hospital

When a New Zealand Superannuation client has been remanded in custody, or is serving a term of imprisonment, is detained in or transferred to a psychiatric hospital they can receive New Zealand Superannuation.

This will also apply to people who turn 65 while in prison and who are then transferred to a psychiatric hospital provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

People who are aged 65 or over, and are not eligible for New Zealand Superannuation may be able to receive Emergency Benefit. For more information see:

• Emergency Benefit Person serving their sentence of imprisonment in a psychiatric hospital

Clients remanded in custody or serving a term of imprisonment who are temporarily hospitalised for treatment of an injury or health condition are still considered to be in prison and the Department of Corrections will meet their costs. An Emergency Benefit or any other financial assistance cannot be paid.

New Zealand Superannuation can be paid at the full rate for 13 weeks following admission to a psychiatric hospital.

New Zealand Superannuation must be reduced to the hospital rate 13 weeks after admission to a psychiatric hospital. You can consider paying a higher rate in some circumstances.

For more information see:

• Definition of imprisonment
• Release on bail
• Qualifications
• Hospitalisation
• Paying at a higher rate