$5k to Work

Who can get it

To get $5k to Work, you have to:

• either:
  • qualify for a main benefit (e.g. Jobseeker Support), or
  • be the partner of someone who qualifies for a main benefit
• have a confirmed job offer for work in New Zealand, with a permanent or fixed-term contract (not a casual contract), that's either:
  
  • at least 30 hours a week, or
  • less than 30 hours a week where it is reasonable and appropriate (e.g. you can support yourself with this job if you're not on a benefit)
• have a confirmed job offer that's:
  • longer than 91 days, and
  • starting within 28 days from when you apply for $5k to Work
  • based in New Zealand
• be moving to take up the job
• be likely to need a benefit for a long time if you don't get this job.

What you can get

You'll get a lump sum payment of $5,000 which is not taxed. This is to help with the costs of moving to take up your new job.

How to apply

1. Complete the application form

Once you have a confirmed, full-time job offer, complete the $5K to Work paper application form.

2. Call us

You need to call us on 0800 559 009

We'll talk with you to understand your situation and how we can help.

3. Provide documents

You'll need to provide a copy of your confirmed job offer (e.g. an employment contract or a letter from your employer) that shows the:

• start date for the role
• number of hours
• duration of the contract.

We'll let you know how to get these documents to us.

What happens next

We'll contact your employer to confirm your employment.

If your application's approved, we'll pay the money into your bank account.