Widow’s Benefit
Widow’s Benefit is a weekly payment which helps women whose husbands or partners have died.
Who can get it
You may get the Widow’s Benefit if you are a woman whose husband or partner has died. This can be a partner from a civil union or de facto relationship.
This will also depend on:
- if you have dependent children
- if you’ve had dependent children in the past
- your age when your husband or partner died
- how long you were married or in a relationship(s).
You must also:
- be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- have lived in New Zealand for at least 2 years at any one time since becoming a New Zealand citizen or resident (unless you are a refugee).
You should also normally live in New Zealand and intend to stay here.
This information is a guide only. Please contact us to talk about your individual circumstances.
For more information
If you'd like more information please download our brochure:
Domestic purposes and widow's benefits (PDF 210.64KB)
Financial assistance for sole parents, some women living alone and caregivers.
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.