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Sole parents: job loss, Sole Parent Support and juggling work

6 minute readFor specific situations

In short

If you're a sole parent who's lost work, you may be eligible for Sole Parent Support (if your youngest child is under 14) or Jobseeker Support. Work expectations depend on your youngest child's age. the Sole Parent Support rate is $606.69 a week before tax (the same as the Jobseeker Support sole parent rate, from 1 April 2026, per the Work and Income benefit rates page). Ask about Working for Families, the Accommodation Supplement and other help.

Which payment?

Sole Parent SupportJobseeker Support
WhoSingle parent or caregiver, 20+, with a dependent child under 14, not in a relationship and without adequate financial supportLooking for work (or temporarily unable to work). Children under 14 don't automatically make you SPS-only; check with Work and Income
Weekly rate (before tax, from 1 April 2026)$606.69$606.69 for a sole parent
Work expectationYoungest child under 3: prepare for work. Aged 3 to 13: find part-time work.Look for work or meet your obligations
Under 20Young Parent Payment may apply instead

Both require New Zealand residence (citizen, permanent resident or residence visa and at least 2 years' continuous residence after gaining that status). If you only miss the 2-year rule, contact Work and Income.

How to get started

  1. Apply online through MyMSD or call Work and Income on 0800 559 009.
  2. Say you are a sole parent and ask them to check both Sole Parent Support and Jobseeker Support, plus extras.
  3. After 12 months on Sole Parent Support you must re-apply if you still need it.
  4. Ask about a Community Services Card, Working for Families tax credits, childcare help and the Accommodation Supplement.

Stretching the money

  • Family Tax Credit rates (from 1 April 2026): $151.91 a week for the first child, $123.78 for each subsequent child. Check eligibility with IRD (0800 227 773).
  • Childcare Subsidy: up to $6.72 an hour (max, before income tests) if you are working, studying or training. Check the Work and Income site for current rules.
  • Ask about school costs: some schools can help with uniforms, trips and stationery.
  • Use the Money Runway tool, then get free budgeting help from MoneyTalks 0800 345 123.
  • Child Support: ask Work and Income how it affects your payment, as the rules differ by benefit.

Getting back to work with kids

  • Look for roles with school-hours, term-time or part-time arrangements. Ask about flexibility in the interview.
  • Training: Work and Income can help with course costs. See the training guides.
  • Your obligations are tied to your child's age. Ask your case manager what's reasonable for your situation, including your childcare options.
  • Line up a back-up carer for sick days. Even one person helps.

Looking after yourself

Doing it solo is exhausting. Ask for help with specific things. Parent Helpline 0800 568 856 is free, and 1737 is free any time. If a partner or ex-partner is controlling or violent, see the family violence guide.

Sources

General information only. Confirm with the agency for your situation. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.

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