Apply online

You can apply online for most benefits or payments.

Follow the steps on this page to apply online for most benefits or payments, except for:

Information

Cyclone Gabrielle

Support and assistance may be available if you've been affected by Cyclone Gabrielle. There are lots of ways we may be able to help, and we can point you in the right direction based on your situation.

Find out more about how we can help with Cyclone Gabrielle

Before you start - what you need to know

There are 3 steps to apply:

  1. Get a client number (if you don't already have one).
  2. Complete the online application form
  3. Complete your next steps.

You can be granted financial assistance from the date you request it. If you can't apply online today contact us now if you haven't already done so.

You have 20 working days from the date you first contact us to complete the application process.

Step 1 - Get a client number (if you don't have one)

This is a 9 digit number we issue you the first time you deal with us. This could be through Work and Income, StudyLink, Seniors or Youth Services. You'll need this anytime you contact us.

Where to find your client number

If you don't have a client number, or can't remember it, you can request one by completing an online form. You'll need to tell us a few details like your name, date of birth, address and IRD number.

If you request a client number, we'll email or text one to you within 1-2 working days. If you fill in your IRD number, we can get back to you in a few hours.

After you get your client number, you'll need to apply in MyMSD.

Get a client number

Step 2 - Complete online application form

You complete the online application form in MyMSD. MyMSD is our online service where you can apply and manage your information online.

Never used MyMSD

If you've never used MyMSD before, you'll need to register first. Enter your client number and date of birth, and follow the instructions to register.

Once you're in MyMSD, select 'Apply' to go to the online form. Some of your information will be automatically pre-filled, based off information you've already told us.

Information you need for the application form
Register for MyMSD

Used MyMSD before

Log in and select 'Apply' to go to the online form. Some of your information will be automatically pre-filled, based off information you've already told us.

Information you need for the application form
Login to MyMSD

Can't use MyMSD

If you can't use MyMSD, call us on 0800 559 009. We'll talk with you about the best way for you to apply. In most cases we'll need you to come in for a face-to-face appointment. Find a Service Centre - Work and Income

However, there may be times we'll be able to support you over the phone.

When filling out the form you'll need to provide a lot of information about you and your family, including:

  • all income details for the last 52 weeks (eg wages, ACC, child support, dividends, rentals etc)
  • anything that could earn you money in the next 52 weeks (eg rental income, dividends, ACC, child support, overseas payments)
  • your expenses (eg housing, childcare, medical costs and hire purchase)
  • IRD numbers
  • bank account details
  • a phone number we can contact you on.

If you or your partner were not born in New Zealand, you’ll need to tell us your or their:

  • country of birth and the date left
  • date arrived in NZ
  • date citizenship or permanent residence was granted.

Our service centres are open. If you are unable to provide these documents online, you can bring them into a service centre. We’ll make a copy and add it to your file or application. Find a Service Centre - Work and Income

Saving your answers

  • Your answers are saved as you go.
  • You can save a partly completed form and come back to it later.

If the application times out

  • If you stay on the same page for more than 5 minutes you'll be logged out.
  • When you log in to return to your form you'll start from your last completed page.

Step 3 - Complete your next steps in MyMSD

Once you've submitted your application form, you'll need to:

  • read and agree to your obligations
  • upload your documents
  • get a medical certificate (if required).

Once you've completed your next steps, we'll contact you and start processing your application.

Already started an online application?

Continue your saved application

Related

The online application process