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Are you caring for someone else's child?
For most grandparents and whānau caregivers who take on the full-time care of children it involves significant financial challenges and readjustments to their lives. With extra mouths to feed, there can also seem like endless extra costs and expenses for simple day-to-day clothing and bedding needs, paying for school and extra-curricular activities, doctors, dental and medical costs, counselling, therapy… and the list goes on.
If you are caring for someone else's child you may be able to get support through Work and Income New Zealand/Te Hiranga Tangata through the Orphan's Benefit or the Unsupported Child Benefit.
Or you might be approved by Oranga Tamariki to receive the Foster Care Allowance.
Need help applying for support?
GRG has extensive expertise and knowledge of the financial support available from the State for grandparents and whānau/kin carers raising someone else's child on a full-time basis. Our advocacy service is free for all full-time grandparent and whānau caregivers.
Not a member? Membership is free and takes just a few minutes to join up here.
Remember: If you need assistance to apply for this support, or you have tried and had difficulty applying for a benefit or been turned down, please contact us on 0800 472 637 for a referral to one of our Advocates who can advise you on your particular circumstances. In some cases the decision from Work and Income is reviewable and may benefit from the presentation of further evidence to justify a benefit being granted in your case.
Helpful Links and Further Information
How long do I have to complete my application?
You have 20 working days from when you first contacted Work and Income. You'll need to provide them with any supporting documentation required for your application within this time. If you don't do this, you may have to reapply.
If you can't complete your application within 20 working days for any reason, please contact Work and Income.