Introduction

A client must provide information about any overseas pension they get, including the payment rate. If they do not comply, their New Zealand benefit or pension can be refused or payment suspended.

When a client advises they are receiving payments from overseas you need to find out the type of payment so you can determine the effect it will have on the clients New Zealand benefit or pension.

It is important the information is obtained as quickly as possible to enable the client's correct entitlement to be assessed.

If the client is unable to provide full documentation of the payments you will need to have the client complete an Information Release Authority form and forward the form to International Services.

This will enable International Services to obtain and verify the following information:

• rate of payment in the overseas currency and whether it includes any amount in respect of the clients partner and any dependent children
• reason for the grant, such as age, widowhood, disablement, or war service
• the name of the organisation or authority that is making the payment
• verification of any portion of an overseas pension which came from voluntary contributions
• ensure the client is receiving their correct entitlement