Hospitalisation and imprisonment
Hospitalisation
When a client is getting a New Zealand benefit or pension in Canada the rate of payment is not reduced if the client is in hospital for more than 13 weeks.
Imprisonment
The New Zealand benefit or pension in Canada should not be stopped if the client is imprisoned.
This is because overseas institutions are not covered by the definitions of institutions in New Zealand legislation.
Client in hospital or imprisoned when Mandatory Review is due
Generally, clients getting a New Zealand benefit or pension in Canada must respond to the Mandatory Review before their review date, or their payment will suspend.
However, when a client is in hospital, imprisoned or detained in custody overseas, they may be able to get an extension or exemption. MSD will need to consider the client's individual circumstances.
The client must contact MSD before their review date to discuss their situation if they need an extension or exemption.
For more information see:
Legislation
- Exemption from review section 310H Social Security Act 2018
- Beneficiary's duty to provide information for review section 310K Social Security Act 2018
- Consequences if beneficiary fails to comply with duty section 310L Social Security Act 2018
