Unsupported Child’s Benefit
Unsupported Child’s Benefit is a weekly payment which helps carers supporting a child or young person whose parents can't care for them because of a family breakdown.
Who can get it
You may be able to get the Unsupported Child’s Benefit if the child or young person you care for is:
- 18 years old or younger
- financially dependent on you
- not able to be cared for by their parents.
You must:
- be 18 or older and the main carer of the child or young person
- expect to care for the child or young person for 12 months or more
- be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- not be the child or young person's natural or adoptive parent or step-parent.
You or the child or young person must normally live in New Zealand. If you are working and are granted the Unsupported Childs Benefit, you may also qualify for the In-work tax credit from Inland Revenue
This information is a guide only. Contact us to talk about your individual circumstances.
For more information
If you'd like more information read:
A guide for people who are raising someone else’s child.
A guide for caregivers who are raising someone else’s child.
How to apply
Contact us to talk about your circumstances and we’ll explain how to apply. We’ll normally arrange a meeting with you and will tell you what you need to bring.
How long do I have to complete my application?
You have 20 working days from when you first contacted us. You'll need to provide us 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 us.