Supported Living Payment in NZ — 2026 Rate
About this article
Sourced from New Zealand Acts of Parliament (legislation.govt.nz), regulations, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Supported Living Payment is for people who are permanently and severely restricted in their capacity to work by a health condition, injury or disability, or who are caring full-time for someone who needs that level of care. It's paid under the Social Security Act 2018.
From 1 April 2026, the net (after-tax) rate for a single person 18+ is $424.60 a week (with different rates for sole parents and couples). It recognises long-term need, so the work obligations are lighter than Jobseeker Support, and a medical assessment is usually required. You can still earn some income before it abates, and may qualify for the Accommodation Supplement and Disability Allowance on top. (Rate current at 1 April 2026 — re-verify before relying on it.)
When does it apply?
- You have a permanent, severe health condition or disability limiting your ability to work.
- You're caring full-time for someone who needs hospital-level or equivalent care.
- You need ongoing income support.
What to do to get the Supported Living Payment
- Apply through Work and Income and arrange the required medical certificate/assessment.
- Apply for the Disability Allowance and Accommodation Supplement too.
- Get help from an advocate (Community Law, beneficiary advocacy services) if needed.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't give up after a decline — you can seek a review and appeal.
- Don't overlook add-on assistance for disability costs.
About Benefits & Welfare in New Zealand
New Zealand's income-support system is run by Work and Income (part of the Ministry of Social Development, MSD) under the Social Security Act 2018. The main payments are Jobseeker Support, Sole Parent Support, the Supported Living Payment, and the Accommodation Supplement for housing costs. Rates are adjusted every 1 April. If MSD makes a decision you disagree with, you can ask for a review (Benefits Review Committee) and then appeal to the independent Social Security Appeal Authority.
Rates current as at 1 April 2026 — re-verify on workandincome.govt.nz. Work and Income: 0800 559 009.
Common Questions
What is the supported living payment right in New Zealand?
The Supported Living Payment is for people who are permanently and severely restricted in their capacity to work by a health condition, injury or disability, or who are caring full-time for someone who needs that level of care. It's paid under the Social Security Act 2018.From 1 April 2026, the net (after-tax) rate for a single person 18+ is $424.60 a week (with different rates for sole parents and couples). It recognises long-term need, so the work obligations are lighter than Jobseeker Support, and a medical assessment is usually required. You can still earn some income before it abates, and...
When does it apply — supported living payment?
You have a permanent, severe health condition or disability limiting your ability to work.You're caring full-time for someone who needs hospital-level or equivalent care.You need ongoing income support.
Who can get the Supported Living Payment in New Zealand?
Apply through Work and Income and arrange the required medical certificate/assessment.Apply for the Disability Allowance and Accommodation Supplement too.Get help from an advocate (Community Law, beneficiary advocacy services) if needed.
What should you NOT do — supported living payment?
Don't give up after a decline — you can seek a review and appeal.Don't overlook add-on assistance for disability costs.