What you need to do
- Look for and prepare for work, following your employment plan in MyMSD.
- Take part in Work Ability Assessments and provider activities if asked.
- Accept suitable job offers.
- Declare any income you earn, by the deadline Work and Income gives you.
- Tell them about changes that affect your payment (income, relationship, address).
- Tell them before travelling overseas, because your payment may be affected.
- Reapply after 26 weeks if you still need support.
The traffic light system
| Colour | Meaning | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Green | Meeting obligations | Keep going. |
| Orange | An obligation was missed and the reason hasn't been accepted | Contact them straight away. Do the activity or get back on track within 5 working days or you move to red. |
| Red | Benefit reduces or stops, or an alternative activity applies (Upskilling, Report Job Search, Money Management, Community Work Experience) | Contact immediately. You return to green as soon as you do the activity. |
Disagree with a decision?
Phone Work and Income first, as it may be fixed over the phone. If not, apply for a Review of Decision within 3 months of the decision (extendable for a good reason). An internal review is carried out and you get a letter within 2 weeks. If the decision stands, it goes to the Benefits Review Committee, where you can bring a support person, advocate or lawyer. After that you can appeal to the Social Security Appeal Authority within 60 working days.
Studying while on Jobseeker Support
Part-time study is fine if you remain available for full-time work. Full-time study means you can't get Jobseeker Support, but StudyLink may help. Check before enrolling.
Sources
- Traffic light system (opens in a new tab)
- Review of Decision (opens in a new tab)
- Jobseeker Support (opens in a new tab)
General information only. Confirm with the agency for your situation. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.