The Supported Living Payment is a Work and Income benefit for people whose ability to work is permanently and severely restricted by a health condition or disability, for full-time carers, and for people who are totally blind. Unlike Jobseeker Support, which is for people temporarily out of work, it recognises that some people cannot reasonably be expected to work, or are giving full-time care to someone who needs it. The dollar amounts change each year, so this guide focuses on who qualifies and how it works, and points you to Work and Income for the current rates.
The disability ground is about a lasting, significant restriction, not a short-term illness. If a health condition only temporarily affects your ability to work, Jobseeker Support on health grounds is usually the right benefit instead. The Supported Living Payment is for situations expected to continue.
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| Age | Generally 16 or over |
| Residency | NZ citizen or permanent resident, normally living here, usually resident for at least two years at some point |
| Ground | Severe permanent health restriction, full-time caring, or totally blind |
| Income | Income tested, including a partner's income (different rules for the totally blind) |
For the disability ground, a health practitioner assesses whether your condition permanently and severely restricts your capacity to work. Work and Income considers this assessment alongside the other criteria. Providing thorough medical information helps your application be assessed accurately.
The payment is income tested. There is an amount you (and a partner) can earn before it reduces, after which it abates. The totally blind have more generous income rules, reflecting the specific provision for them. As with all benefits, a partner's income is part of the test.
Because the income-free zone, abatement rate and base payment are set each year, this guide does not quote figures that would date quickly. Use the official Work and Income estimator for current numbers and an estimate for your circumstances.
As with other benefits, you may also qualify for the Accommodation Supplement, the Disability Allowance for ongoing disability costs, or other assistance on top of the base payment. These are separate, so ask Work and Income what else you are entitled to.
The trap: Applying for the wrong benefit for your situation.
Why it matters: Jobseeker Support (health) is for temporary or partial restriction with work obligations; the Supported Living Payment is for permanent, severe restriction or full-time caring, with no work test. Applying for the right one avoids delays.
The trap: Submitting limited detail about your condition.
Why it matters: The assessment relies on medical evidence. Thorough, specific information from your health practitioner helps your eligibility be judged correctly.
The trap: Receiving the base payment but not claiming ongoing disability costs.
Why it matters: The Disability Allowance is a separate weekly payment for regular extra costs caused by a disability, and it is commonly missed.
The trap: Earning some income and not telling Work and Income.
Why it matters: Undeclared income causes overpayments you must repay. Report income and changes promptly.
Check the official Work and Income website for current rates, eligibility and to apply. See our Jobseeker Support guide for the work-focused benefit, and the Financial Hardship Help guide for wider support.
Final word: The Supported Living Payment recognises that some people cannot reasonably be expected to work, because of a permanent severe health restriction, a full-time caring role, or total blindness. It is income tested, needs a medical assessment for the disability ground, and carries no work obligations. Apply through Work and Income, give full medical detail, and claim related help like the Disability Allowance. This is general information, not advice on your entitlement, so confirm everything with Work and Income.
Quiz on the Supported Living Payment (20 Questions)
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