Caring for foster child under 12 months old
In some cases a young person may be caring for a foster child under the age of 12 months who is in Oranga Tamariki care. Foster children are not considered to be dependent children.
This is a partial exemption only. The young person can be exempt from meeting their obligation to be in full-time education, training and work-based learning.
The budgeting and parenting obligations, along with the obligation to meet with their service provider or Work and Income "in-house" service still apply.
Age
This exemption is only available to 18 year olds. It is unlikely that anyone younger than 18 will be approved by Oranga Tamariki as a caregiver.
Proof
The young person must provide:
- confirmation of the care arrangement - for example, a letter from Oranga Tamariki
- confirmation of the age of the child
Duration
This exemption can be granted until the foster child turns 12 months of age or until the foster child is six months old and there is a suitable place available at a Teen Parent Unit.
SWIFTT process
Use SWIFTT exemption reason "UCB/OB Foster Child under 12 months".
Receiving an incentive payment
If the young person is receiving an incentive payment and then qualifies for an exemption you will need to decide if they can continue to receive it.
For more information see:
Legislation
- Exemption from obligations under section 162, 164, 166, or 167 of Act: young parent payment recipients, and young persons with dependent children who are spouses or partners of specified beneficiaries regulation 107 Social Security Regulations 2018
