In the year 2025, the Work and Income department of New Zealand continues the “$5k to Work” grant, which provides a one-time grant of $5,000 for people relocating for a new job. This financial assistance is designed to ease the transition into employment and decrease the chances of long-term dependence on government benefits. Here is everything you need to know about who can apply, how to apply, and what the grant covers.
Who can apply
In order to be eligible for the “$5k to Work” grant, you must currently be receiving a main benefit from Work and Income, such as Jobseeker Support, or be the partner of an applicant who is.
- You must have a confirmed job offer based in New Zealand. The job must not be a casual one; it must be either permanent or fixed-term and should include at least 30 hours of work a week. If the job is offering fewer than 30 hours, the pay should still be enough to not require a benefit.
- The job must be in excess of 91 days and starting within 28 days of your application, and you must be moving to take the job.
- Lastly, the grant is meant for an individual who would, in the absence of the job, have probably been for a lengthy time on a benefit.
- It should be noted that if you leave the job without just cause and either apply for a benefit or take up study within three months of starting, you may be required to repay the $5,000 grant.
How to Apply
Upon getting a job offer, fill in the application for “$5k to Work” through Work and Income. You will need to present a copy of the job offer defining the start date, number of hours, and duration of employment.
Before leaping into applying, it would be good to contact Work and Income to go through your situation with them. They will confirm your eligibility and advise as to what documentation they will require.
The $5,000 will be paid directly to your bank account once your application has been processed and the job has been verified by your employer.
What the Grant will Cover
The “$5k to Work” grant is exempted from tax; however, its aim is to help with moving and settling expenses in the new job. These may include costs related to moving, setting up with new accommodation, and other expensed relating to starting work in a different area.
The grant grants a degree of flexibility in that you can use it towards whatever moving expenses may be most relevant to help you settle with success in your new job.
Other Supports Available
Besides the “$5k to Work” grant, Work and Income administers a number of other forms of assistance. The Transition to Work Grant provides up to $1,500 for 52 weeks to cover costs associated with starting a job or looking for work, such as clothes for work, transportation, and basic necessities required during the transition.
Job and Training Support Funds are to help people who have disabilities or health conditions with extra needs in getting them into work or training.
Closing Remarks
The “$5k to Work” grant represents a golden opportunity for beneficiaries in New Zealand who are determined to reinvent themselves through work. It has well-defined criteria for its functioning mechanism and an easy application process. Therefore, it translates into a practical approach to supporting your entry into stable work while discouraging prolonged benefit reliance.