Relationship break-up

If you and your partner have broken up, we may be able to help.

Important information

If you're in a violent situation and in need of urgent help, see:

Family violence help and support (New Zealand Police)external

Get support (Are You Okay)external

Who can get help

You may be able to get help from us if you're not working or are on a low income and either:

  • you and your partner have separated
  • your partner has gone to prison
  • you've had to leave the family home because of violence
  • your partner is no longer supporting you.

What you can get

Need money while you look for work

You're looking for full-time work and need help with day-to-day expenses.

Jobseeker Support


When you apply for Jobseeker Support, there may be some things you need to do before you can get it.

The online application process

Sole parent with children under 14 to support

Sole parent with children over 14 to support

You're looking for full-time work and caring for children over 14.

Jobseeker Support


When you apply for Jobseeker Support, there may be some things you need to do before you can get it.

The online application process

Ability to work affected because of a health condition or disability

You have a health condition or disability which affects your ability to work. This means that you have to reduce your hours or stop work for a while. We may still be able to help if you have a job to go back to.

You'll need a medical certificate from your health practitioner, eg, your doctor, to tell us how your health condition or disability affects your ability to work.

Stopping work because of health condition or disability

International custody dispute

If you're involved in an international child custody and access dispute, you may be able to get help from us.

International custody dispute payment

Unsure of what you'll be able to get

Use "Check what you might get" to find out what help you could qualify for.