Financial help and benefits if you’re over 65
Most New Zealanders over 65 can get NZ Super. For lower incomes, you may also be able to get government help to pay for regular costs or unexpected expenses.
Other payments you may be able to get
If you have a low income, you may be able to get other payments in addition to your New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) or pension.
There are different payments you may be able to get to help you, for example:
- accommodation supplement
- disability allowance
- community services card.
Work and Income have an online tool you can use to check what other payments and assistance you can get.
Help with paying for urgent or unexpected costs
If you’re struggling to meet your living costs or you get an unexpected bill, you may be able to get some help.
There’s financial help available for a range of expenses, for example:
- food
- car and house repairs
- medical costs and dental treatment
- power and water bills
- whiteware, such as a fridge or washing machine.
Some of these payments you’ll have to pay back and some others you will not.
Housing and household costs
You can get help to pay for:
- rent or board
- your mortgage
- your rates — including a rebate or refund from your local council, or postponing payments until you or your estate can pay
- low-cost housing through central government or your local council.
Transport costs
SuperGold Card
You can use your SuperGold Card to get free or cheaper public transport. You can also get discounts on some council services and from many businesses in New Zealand.
If you do not have a car
You can get help to use and pay for other kinds of transport.
Coping without a car if you’re over 65
If you have a car
You may be able to get help to pay for car repairs if you need the car to get to work, because you have an illness or disability, or because you cannot use public transport.
If you’re injured and the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) has accepted your claim, you can get help with some costs.
If you’re disabled or have health problems
The government provides services and financial help if you’re disabled or have health problems. You can get help with:
- paying for doctor’s visits and prescriptions
- managing day-to-day and routine tasks in your home
- paying for long-term care in a rest home or hospital
- transport for medical reasons.
Getting help with budgeting and finances
Financial abuse and scams — protect yourself and others
Anyone can be a victim of financial abuse. Find out about financial abuse and scams and how to protect yourself:
Managing your money
Most New Zealanders will be able to get NZ Super. Managing savings and several sources of income can be difficult — especially when you do not know for how long you’re planning. The Sorted website has advice to help you with your money:
Professional advice
You can get professional advice to help with budgeting and managing your money:
If you cannot get NZ Super
You can still apply for government help if you cannot get NZ Super — for example, because you’re not a permanent NZ resident or have not lived here for long enough.
More information and contact details
Different organisations can help you with your retirement and other related topics.