Your debt with us

If you owe us money we expect you to pay it back. This may take time and we'll work with you to come up with a repayment plan where you pay a regular amount you can afford.

Information

The most important thing is not to ignore your debt. If you're having trouble paying it back you need to talk to us about your situation.

Examples of debt

Two of the most common ways to get into debt are:

  • recoverable assistance or benefit advances

    This is money we've paid with the understanding that you will have to pay it back. It's usually for things you really need and can't afford at the time, eg a washing machine, school uniforms or a rent payment.

  • we paid you too much

    This can happen if you didn't tell us:

    • your correct income before we paid you
    • your income increased
    • about a change in circumstances, eg you started work, have a new partner or went overseas.

You can view details of your debt and any repayments you've made online, using MyMSD.

 
Go to My MSD login
Sign up or log in to MyMSD

If you disagree that you owe a debt or with how much you owe, you can ask for a review of decision.

Giving us a call is also a good idea. We can talk about what we've done and see if we've made a mistake. If we have, then we can sort it out without you going through a formal review.

Review of decision
Our phone number

Repaying debt while getting payments from us

If you're getting a benefit, Accommodation Supplement or NZ Superannuation, we work with you to decide on an amount you can afford which will then be taken from your weekly payments.

Repaying debt while not getting payments from us

If you're only getting extra help payments, such as Childcare or Disability Allowance, any money you owe us won't be taken from these payments. You can pay it off in a lump sum or with weekly payments at an amount you can afford.

Pay debt in New Zealand
Pay debt from overseas

If you're not coping

We know it can sometimes be difficult making repayments while you're on a low income. So if you have trouble keeping up with your repayments please call us as soon as you can.

We may be able to help by reducing your repayments or providing extra income support for instance; or refer you to someone else who can help.

Remember your debt won't go away

We actively collect debts owed to us, and take the time to trace people who owe us money. One of the ways we do this is by comparing records with other Government departments.

We also have certain legal rights if you don't repay us, for instance we can have money deducted from your wages or bank account.

Who you can talk to

If you have any questions about your debt or repayments please call

Once you've paid off your debts, it's really important you try and stay out of debt. Here are a couple of things you can do to help prevent getting into debt in the future:

Tell us about any changes

By telling us straight away about any changes to your personal situation, you can help ensure the right amount of income support is paid to you so you don't end up owing us money.

What you need to tell us

Create a budget plan

A budget plan can help you manage your money better. It means you can be more prepared if you suddenly have an unplanned expense and it means you may not need to borrow money to meet these expenses. Ask your Case Manager for advice to help you get started on a budget plan.

Our contact numbers

Inland Revenue Department
General enquiries: 0800 227 774
Working for Families Tax Credits: 0800 227 773
Child Support: 0800 221 221

ACC
General claims: 0800 101 996
Sensitive claims: 0800 735 566

Others
Citizens Advice Bureau: 0800 367 222

NZ Federation of Family Budgeting Services
MoneyTalks - a free financial helpline if you're struggling with your money