Detention in or transfer to a psychiatric hospital

When a Veterans Pension 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 Veterans Pension.

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 Veterans Pension or 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.