Individual assessment for people unable to support themselves who do not qualify for other payments.
Eligibility points to check
Other benefits must be considered first. Being declined for one payment does not automatically qualify you; the agency assesses your circumstances and evidence.
How to proceed
Contact Work and Income using the official page and provide the evidence they request.
Before you apply
Have identity and residence details, income or asset information, and any relevant medical, tenancy, care or study evidence ready. The official application page decides the exact documents required.
Key amounts and dates to confirm
Payment amount, income or asset limits
When payments normally start and whether backdating is possible
When support ends and whether renewal or updates are required
Whether it can be combined with other support and whether repayment applies
These figures and dates depend on your circumstances and policy changes; iKoru does not estimate them.
Looking for other relevant support? Answer a few questions to find programmes worth checking. Results are information prompts, not eligibility decisions.
This is an independent summary based on the official source above. It does not represent the agency or decide eligibility or amounts. Send an official evidence link if a rule or wording needs correction.
Independent summaries of official notices. Publication dates are not effective dates; related programmes may be mentioned as background. Check the source and subsequent notices.
MSD identifies a legislative omission and processing backlogs behind inappropriate payment suspensions. The notice says entitlements were restored, arrears paid and review recommendations would be implemented.
StudyLink proposes a parental-assistance test for some young Student Hardship or equivalent Emergency Benefit applicants, with a proposed date of 2 November 2026, subject to passage of the Bill.