Partner getting a benefit

Students who are under 24, with no children, who are getting a benefit as part of a couple, can apply for a Student Allowance in their own right. If eligible and entitled the student will be granted a Student Allowance at a single rate. This is because they are not in a recognised relationship for Student Allowance purposes

Their student's partner may still be eligible to get a benefit.

The Student Allowance is charged against the half married rate of benefit payable to the partner.

The implications of getting a Student Allowance must be discussed with the couple.

There is no provision to pay a 'half-couple' rate of Student Allowance.

Therefore, a student in a recognised relationship for Student Allowance purposes, is not eligible for a Student Allowance if their partner is getting a main benefit, New Zealand Superannuation or Veterans Pension.

Students who are under 24, with children, who are getting a benefit as part of a couple, can apply for a Student Allowance, as part of a couple in a recognised relationship for Student Allowance purposes.

If the partner is a not a student, and not eligible and entitled to a Student Allowance in their own right they will be included in the student's couple rate of Student Allowance.

The implications of getting a Student Allowance must be discussed with the couple.

Students who are over 24, who are getting a benefit paid as a partner can apply for a Student Allowance, as part of a couple in a recognised relationship for Student Allowance purposes.

If the partner is a not a student, and not eligible and entitled to a Student Allowance in their own right, they will be included in the student's couple rate of Student Allowance.

The implications of getting a Student Allowance must be discussed with the couple.