Published: 1 July, 2021
What’s changing at Work and Income from 1 July
We wanted to let you know about a few changes happening from 1 July that were announced as part of Budget 2021.
Main Benefit increasing on 1 July 2021
On 1 July, all main benefits will increase by $20 per adult, per week. This will happen automatically – people don’t need to do anything. Please be aware, however, that NZ Super and Veteran’s Pension rates are not increasing.
When benefit rates change, this may affect other payments people get (for example, Temporary Additional Support or Accommodation Supplement). This means their supplementary payments may decrease. The overall amount someone gets will depend on their situation. People can check their payments in MyMSD.
Money for study
From 1 July 2021, the Training Incentive Allowance will support degree-level study for sole parents on a benefit, or carers and disabled people on Supported Living Payment.
Training Incentive Allowance helps with upfront and ongoing costs of study, such as fees, books, transport, and childcare costs. From 1 July until 1 January 2025, people can apply for Training Incentive Allowance for study at levels 4-7.
Making it easier to get Orphan’s Benefit and Unsupported Child’s Benefit
From 1 July 2021, the eligibility criteria for the Orphan’s Benefit and the Unsupported Child’s Benefit will change.
There is no longer a minimum period the caregiver must support the child for. For example, someone might be looking after a child while the child’s parent is suffering from a serious illness or incapacity and is unable to provide day-to-day care and responsibility for the child. Our website will be updated on 1 July with more information.
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