Financial help to move into work
Access to money to help you start work.
See 3 types of financial assistance on this page
Transition to Work Grant
Ministry of Social Development
You may be able to get help from Work and Income to pay for things you need to find or start a job.
What it's about
Work and Income may be able to help you pay for things such as clothing for work, tools, living expenses until your first pay, or travel to work.
Who it's for
Anyone over 16 years who’s looking for or starting work. There are other criteria you need to meet as well – these are outlined on the Work and Income website.
What it offers
Up to $1,500 for costs such as relocating for work, clothing and transport for a job interview, tools or clothing for work, and other costs.
$5K to Work
Ministry of Social Development
A payment from Work and Income if you qualify for a benefit and need to move to a different region to start your new job.
What it's about
Helps to cover the cost of moving to start a new job.
Who it's for
People who qualify for a benefit, have an offer for a job longer than 91 days, and need to move to a different region. There are also other criteria - these are outlined on the Work and Income website.
What it offers
A $5,000 lump sum payment, which is not taxed.
Flexi-wage
Ministry of Social Development
If you need support or training to get the skills you need for a job, Flexi-wage may be able to help.
What it's about
Flexi-wage is an employment programme that helps job seekers get the skills they need to meet the requirements of a job.
Flexi-wage support can include training and in-work support (such as pastoral care) as well as a contribution to wages. The job must continue after the Flexi-wage has finished.
Who it's for
You may be able to get Flexi-wage if you’re:
- at risk of long-term unemployment, including if you’re on a benefit
and/or
- disadvantaged in the labour market (this means you have, or are expected to have, difficulty getting or keeping a job). You don’t need to be on a benefit.
What it offers
Work and Income may be able to support you with training or in-work support (such as pastoral care) and by paying your employer a contribution to your wages until you have the skills you need to do the job.
Work and Income will talk to your employer about what help you may need and how it can help them pay for it.
Last modified: