AUGUST 2004

Disability Allowances

Disability Allowances are available from Work & Income New Zealand to help people who have needs because of medical conditions. They are income tested, and so some of you will not be able to take advantage. Currently the income limits for a single person (over 18 years) is $24,128 and for a couple $34,996. If your income is below those figures and you have frequent visits to your doctor because of an ongoing health problem that is likely to last at least six months, or have transport costs to get to the doctor, or go for podiatry, or to the supermarket whilst having this ongoing health problem you may be able to obtain help through a Disability Allowance.

The Allowance can also assist with other items and services connected with an ongoing health problems such as: prescription fees, hearing aid batteries, incontinence pads, guide-dog costs, gardening and outdoor household maintenance costs, special foods - where they cost more than a normal diet, heating – where your bills are higher than might be considered normal due to a lack of mobility perhaps; or if you have to pay rental on a motorised mobility scooter or if you rent a medical alarm.

The most you can receive from a Disability Allowance is currently $48.18 per week.

For those of you who are Returned Servicemen and women you may also be able to ask for help with items such as gardening and outside maintenance through a Case Manager at Veterans’ Affairs New Zealand (0800 483 8372).