Urgent or unexpected costs

If you and your whānau need extra support while you're self-isolating because of COVID-19, we may be able to help. Use our online forms to let us know how we can help you.

Help while you’re self-isolating

What we can help you with

• Accommodation costs (rent, mortgage, board)
• Bereavement
• Car repairs
• Dental treatment
• Fire or theft
• Food
• Glasses
• Home repairs and maintenance
• Medical costs
• Moving house costs (e.g. bond, rent, moving costs)
• Power, gas and water bills or heating
• Whiteware (e.g. fridge, freezer, washing machine)

Help to get a COVID-19 test

The Unite Against COVID-19 website has information about when to get a test, getting free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs), and how to report COVID-19 test results.

Another cost

If you have a cost that's urgent or unexpected and not listed here, eg, clothing or bedding, we may still be able to help.

We may be able to give you a one-off payment. What payment you may be able to get depends on if you're getting a benefit or not, and what cost you have.

Getting a benefit

If you're already getting a benefit, you may be able to get either:

• Special Needs Grant or
• Advance Payment of Benefit

Each payment covers lots of different costs. If you get stuck, give us a call on 0800 559 009 and talk with us about your situation.

Not getting a benefit

If you're not getting a benefit, you may be able to get either:

• Special Needs Grant or
• Recoverable Assistance Payment

Each payment covers lots of different costs. If you get stuck, give us a call on 0800 559 009 and talk with us about your situation.