Couples who have separated

When couples have separated, they can be treated as single and can receive the single sharing accommodation or the single living alone rate of New Zealand Superannuation (provided they have not entered into another relationship).

The rate of payment will depend on whether they:

• are sharing their accommodation with any person aged 18 years or over, other than a dependent child, or a visitor who stays more than 13 weeks in any 26 week period or
• meet all the qualifications for the single living alone rate

Note the single sharing accommodation or the single living alone rate can be paid from the date the New Zealand Superannuation commences if the client meets the above criteria at their entitlement date.

For more information about the effective date to review if the client is already receiving New Zealand Superannuation see:

• Effective date of review due to change in relationship

For couples who are married or in a civil union to be separated from their partner there must be a physical separation and an acceptance or recognition by one or both of the partners that the relationship has ended.

For a de facto couple to be separated their relationship must no longer be in the nature of marriage or civil union (a relationship in the nature of marriage or civil union means both a financial interdependence and emotional commitment).