Can I get my Breast Pump funded by Work and Income?

Breastfeeding is a natural process that provides countless benefits for both mums and babies. However, for some families, the cost of a breast pump can be a financial burden. Fortunately, the New Zealand government offers a Special Needs Grant to assist with essential or emergency costs, including the purchase of a breast pump.

To be eligible for the grant, you must have an essential or emergency cost, which can include a breast pump, that you cannot pay for through other means. 

Additionally, you must be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or have a residence class visa, and intend to stay in New Zealand. The amount of the grant may depend on various factors, such as your income, assets, and the specific essential or emergency cost you are applying for.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Milkbar is an authorized MSD supplier and can provide a quote for families who match the eligibility criteria for the Special Needs Grant. By contacting Milkbar, families can receive a quote that they can include with their application for the grant.

 

 

 

 

 

Breastfeeding is an important aspect of early childhood development, and every family should have access to the resources they need to make it possible. If you're struggling to afford a breast pump, consider applying for a Special Needs Grant. And if you qualify, don't hesitate to contact Milkbar for a quote to help you with your application.

Who can get it

You may be able to get a Special Needs Grant if you:

• have an essential or emergency cost you can't pay for
• have no other way to pay for this cost
• either:
  • are a New Zealand citizen
  • are a permanent resident, or
  • have a residence class visa
• normally live in New Zealand and intend to stay here.

When you have an emergency cost, we'll also look at:

• whether you knew the cost was going to come up
• whether you could have covered the cost yourself
• how the Special Needs Grant will help your situation.

There may also be extra criteria you need to meet depending on the essential or emergency cost you apply for.

It may also depend on:

• how much you and your partner earn
• any money or assets you and your partner have.

Asset limits

These don't include what you need for day-to-day living, eg your home or your car. They do include things like money in the bank, or a second property.

If you are:	Your assets are worth less than
Single	$1,279.35
Couple (with or without children) or sole parent	$2,131.73

Current income limits

If you are:	Weekly income before tax is less than
Single and 16 to 17 years old	$783.91
Single and 18 years old or over	$900.93
Couple (with or without children)	$1,308.60
Sole parent with 1 child	$1,093.25
Sole parent with 2 or more children	$1,151.80

 

What you can get

How much you get depends on your situation and what you need help with.

Essential costs could include things like:

• breast pump if you can't breastfeed because you or your baby have health issues.

Find out more here:

https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/special-needs-grant.html