NZ Disability Payment to Increase to $78.60 Per Week in 2025: Know New Benefits, Eligibility and Application Process

On: Friday, April 18, 2025 10:27 AM

NZ Disability Payment to Increase to $78.60 Per Week in 2025: Know New Benefits, Eligibility and Application Process

The New Zealand government has taken a big and relief step in 2025. Now people suffering from disability will get more financial assistance than before. From April 2025, people with disabilities will be given $78.60 extra assistance every week. This increase has been done under the “Annual General Adjustment (AGA)”, which takes place every year so that the benefit can be updated according to inflation and rising cost of living.

Now if there is someone in your house who is suffering from any long-term health issue or disability, then this new update means a lot to you. Let us know in detail in this article who will get this benefit, how to get it, and how to apply.

What is Disability Payment Scheme?

This scheme of the New Zealand government is to help those who have trouble working for some reason or who need special health services. There are two main types of support under the scheme:

1. Supported Living Payment (SLP)

This is for people who:

Are permanently disabled or have a health condition that prevents them from working for at least 2 years
Are legally blind
Are caring full-time for someone who needs hospital or residential care

2. Disability Allowance

This is specifically for expenses that are caused by a health problem or disability, such as:

Regular visits to a doctor or specialist
Medicines, supplements or medical equipment
Transport costs (such as taxis or wheelchair services)

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You don’t have to be on SLP to get this allowance.

How Much Money Will You Get in 2025?

The government has implemented this change from 1 April 2025. Now every eligible person will get an additional $78.60 per week in support.

New Payment Breakdown (2025):

Adults living alone (18+): Previously $327.25, now $405.85 per week
Both eligible spouses: Overall increase of $130.40 per week
Single parents: Benefits may be slightly higher depending on number of children
Disability Allowance: Can range from $12 to $70 per week or more, depending on expenses

Keep in mind that the total amount depends on your situation – the amount is determined by your income, living situation, and medical expenses.

Why is This Change Necessary?

Living is not easy in today’s time – especially for those who are struggling with a physical or mental problem. House rent, medicine prices, physiotherapy, special diet – everything is getting expensive. In such a situation, this decision of the government is a big relief.

This year’s increase is 2.22%, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Around 1.5 million people will benefit from this change.

What is Eligibility?

Your eligibility is determined by Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ). Here are some key points:

For Supported Living Payment:

You must have a permanent illness or disability that leaves you unable to work for at least 2 years
You must be legally blind, or caring for someone who relies on full-time care
Your income and assets must be within WINZ’s thresholds
Your living situation: living alone, with a partner, with children – all play a part

For Disability Allowance:

You must have a long-term health condition
You must have a record of medical bills, medicines, transport etc.
You must have written evidence from a doctor or specialist

How to Apply?

Login to MyMSD:
Go to the MyMSD website and log in to your account. If you do not have an account, create a new account using your client number and ID.
Update Personal Information:
Keep your income, living conditions, medical conditions etc. correct. If there is any change, update it.
Upload Medical Documents:
Upload new certificates or expenses from a doctor or specialist.
Use the Eligibility Tool:
Use the Check What You Might Get tool to find out what kind of help you can get.
Visit or Call a WINZ Office:
If you are not able to understand anything, call 0800 559 009 or visit your nearest WINZ office.

What If Your Application Was Rejected Earlier?

Many times people make mistakes in filling the form even though they are eligible, documents are incomplete or the income limit is exceeded. Now that payments have been increased and some eligibility rules relaxed, you can apply again.

For example, if you previously had a slightly higher income and were rejected, the new limits may now make you eligible.

Some Real-Life Examples

1. John (42) – lives alone, arthritis

John was previously receiving $327.25 per week. He now receives $405.85 – an increase of $78.60. This allows him to afford new medications and specialist visits.

2. Priya (36) – single mother, child with autism

Priya receives both SLP and Disability Allowance. She now receives about $120 per week to cover her son’s therapy costs, special diet and transport.

3. Moana (58 years) – looks after her daughter

Moana was previously outside the income threshold, but revised rules have made her eligible for Disability Allowance. She now gets 50% of her income $45 per week for transport and special food supplements.

What Other Supports Can You Get?

If you’re on Disability Benefit, you can also benefit from other schemes:

Accommodation Supplement: Helps if your house rent or loan is too high
Child Disability Allowance: If your child is suffering from a serious illness
Temporary Additional Support: Helps with sudden financial difficulties
Community Services Card: Discounts on medicines and healthcare
Winter Energy Payment: Relief in electricity and heating costs during winter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Do I need to reapply to get this $78.60 increase?

No, if you’re already on benefits this change automatically takes effect from 1 April 2025.

Q2: What if I’m not getting the increased amount?

Q3: Are these payments taxable?

No, most disability payments are tax-free, unless you have a lot of other income.

Q4: Can I receive more than one benefit?

Yes, you can receive SLP, Disability Allowance, and other plans at the same time if you qualify.

Q5: Who can help me apply?

WINZ case managers, social workers, doctors or disability support groups can help you.

Conclusion

The increase in disability payments in 2025 is a commendable initiative by the New Zealand government. It’s not just a number – it’s respect and relief for people who are struggling with the challenges of everyday life. If you or a member of your household is struggling with a long-term illness or disability, this is your chance to take advantage of this scheme.

Apply on time, keep your documents up to date and get the help you deserve.