Financial Aid
Chronic Illness and disability are expensive, more so than people realise. Making sure you can afford everything can be distressing until it’s all sorted out. Here, you can find a break down of what aid is available, where you can find it, and tips for staying on top of everything.
Page Links
- Understanding Different Types of Financial Aid
- Government Support Schemes
- Scholarships and Bursaries
- Budgeting Advice for Medical Expenses
Support for Disabled and Chronically Ill Individuals in New Zealand
Welcome to the comprehensive guide for government and regional support schemes available to disabled and chronically ill individuals in New Zealand. This section provides detailed information on financial assistance, healthcare services, and employment support. Whether you’re looking for disability allowances, travel assistance, or mobility aids, this guide has the information you need.
1. Income Support and Benefits
Disability Allowance
- A weekly payment to help with ongoing costs due to a disability lasting six months or more.
- Learn More & Apply
Child Disability Allowance
- Financial support for the primary carer of a seriously disabled child or young person requiring constant care.
- Learn More & Apply
Supported Living Payment
- For those permanently unfit for work due to a health condition, injury, or disability, or for caregivers of those who would require residential care.
- Learn More & Apply
Emergency Benefit
- For individuals unable to earn enough to support themselves due to health conditions or disabilities.
- Learn More & Apply
2. Health and Disability Services
Home and Community Support Services
- Funded by Disability Support Services, this provides assistance with household tasks and personal care for independent living at home.
- Learn More
National Travel Assistance Scheme
- Financial support for travel costs related to medical treatment.
- Learn More
Mobility Parking Permit Scheme
- Parking permits for individuals with mobility impairments.
- Learn More
Total Mobility Scheme
- Discounted taxi fares for people with impairments affecting their ability to use public transport.
- Learn More
3. Financial Assistance for Healthcare
Community Services Card
- Offers lower healthcare costs for eligible individuals, including those with disabilities.
- Learn More & Apply
High Use Health Card
- Assists individuals with high ongoing medical costs.
- Learn More & Apply
4. Employment Support
Employment Support Services
- Assistance for disabled individuals seeking employment, including job placement and ongoing support.
- Learn More
5. Additional Support
Lottery Grants
- Financial assistance for disabled individuals, including funding for mobility aids and essential equipment.
- Learn More
Disability Information and Advisory Services
- Offers guidance on navigating available services and benefits.
- Learn More
How to Apply for Support
- Contact Work and Income:
- Visit Work and Income or call their offices to begin the application process for various benefits.
- Consult Healthcare Providers:
- Obtain medical documentation from your healthcare providers to support your application for disability benefits.
- Reach Out to Support Services:
- Use Disability Information and Advisory Services for assistance navigating available resources.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Eligibility for these support schemes depends on individual circumstances, such as the nature of your disability or chronic illness, financial status, and care needs. Ensure that you meet the specific requirements outlined for each service and consult the official websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
By following the steps and links provided, you can access the financial and healthcare support you need as a disabled or chronically ill individual in New Zealand. If you need help or further information, don’t hesitate to reach out to local government offices or support services.