Money & debt
Can Work and Income help with urgent costs like food or power?
WINZ lists urgent or unexpected cost support when you may be eligible — check the official page and keep records.
If something unexpected hits — food shortfall, power disconnection risk, essential costs — Work and Income publishes information on urgent or unexpected cost support. Rules and eligibility change, so always read the current official page rather than relying on hearsay.
Contact your power retailer early if you cannot pay; many have hardship options. Community food supports (foodbanks, The Hub in Te Puke, Vinnies, Salvation Army) can bridge kai while you sort income. Community Law or a mentor can help you prepare what to say.
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 111. Home Steps crisis checklists are for readiness and next-step lists — not a substitute for emergency services or official WINZ decisions.
Calm next moves
- Open the WINZ urgent costs page and note what might apply to you.
- Call your power company early — ask about hardship.
- MoneyTalks — 0800 345 123 if you want help sorting the money picture.
Official resources
Always confirm details on the official site — laws and processes can change.
Educational signposting only from the Resilience Programme. Not legal, financial, or medical advice. Updated 2026-07-10.