Caring for someone with a health condition, injury or disability
If the person you're caring for would need hospital, rest home or residential care without you, we may be able to help.
What you can get
Caring for someone ill or disabled
You may be able to get a Supported Living Payment if you're caring for a person at home who would otherwise need hospital-level, rest home or residential care (or the equivalent). This includes caring for your own child but not your partner.
The person you're caring for can also apply for a Supported Living Payment.
We'll need to see a medical certificate for the person you're caring for. It needs to be completed by their health practitioner.
Caring for your partner
Supported Living Payment
If you're caring for your partner at home and they would otherwise need hospital-level care or residential care (or the equivalent), they may be able to get a Supported Living Payment. They will need to apply for this benefit and you can be included in it. We'll need to see a medical certificate from their health practitioner.
Special Disability Allowance
If you're getting a benefit and your partner is in residential care, or has been in a public hospital for over 13 weeks, you may be able to get a Special Disability Allowance.
Guide for carers
There is help available from other government agencies and organisations.
A guide to services and support available for carers (Ministry of Social Development)external
Unsure of what you'll be able to get
Use "Check what you might get" to find out what help you could qualify for.
Applying on someone else's behalf
You can apply for help from us on someone else's behalf, but only if they've filled out a form to appoint you as their agent.