Fill in the [brackets]
Subject: Review of decision - [Your name], client number [number]
To the Work and Income Benefit Review Committee / Service Centre Manager, I am asking for a review of a decision. My details: [full name], client number [number], address [address]. The decision: [what was decided: e.g. declined a Special Needs Grant for rent arrears / my benefit start date / the stand-down period / reduction of payment] Date I found out about the decision: [date]. [Attach the decision letter or notes.] Why I disagree [Short plain explanation. E.g.: I think I qualify because [reason]. The decision didn't take into account [fact/document]. I was given the wrong information about [x]. My circumstances are [x].] What I am asking for That the decision be changed so that [e.g. I receive the grant / my payments start from [date] / I am entitled to [payment]]. I would like to [attend the hearing in person / by phone / bring a support person or advocate [name]]. Please contact me on [phone] and send written decisions to [email/address]. If I need to send anything else, please let me know what. Yours sincerely, [Your name] [Date]
Tips
- You apply within 3 months of the decision. Late applications may be accepted for a good reason such as illness, disability, language difficulties or not understanding the decision.
- Phone Work and Income first (0800 559 009). Sometimes a mistake is fixed straight away.
- A review letter doesn't need legal words. Say the date you found out, what the decision was, and why you disagree.
- An internal review is done first and you should be told in writing within about 2 weeks. If it is not changed, it goes to the Benefits Review Committee, where you can attend with a support person or advocate. After that you can appeal to the Social Security Appeal Authority.
- Hand it in at a service centre and ask for a stamped copy, or email it and keep the sent email.
- A Community Law centre, CAB, a budgeting service or the Beneficiary Advocacy service can help you for free.
General information, not legal advice. Keep a copy of everything you send. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.