Veterans · New Zealand
Support for veterans
Veterans' Affairs and Work and Income run different programmes. Practical home help after assessment is not the same as a weekly pension payment. Check both only if your situation fits each set of rules.
- Official New Zealand sources
- Private · No account
Veterans' Independence Programme (VIP)
VIP provides practical support so eligible veterans can stay independent at home. It is not a cash benefit you spend yourself.
Veterans' Independence Programme
- Who
- Eligible veterans who need help to remain living independently at home.
- Why it matters
- Can provide services such as home help and personal care after Veterans' Affairs assessment.
- Next step
- Contact Veterans' Affairs to discuss your needs and arrange an assessment.
- VIP pays for services, not a weekly amount into your bank account.
- Assessment determines what support is appropriate and for how long.
Veteran's Pension
Veteran's Pension is a main income payment for eligible veterans who meet age and service-related criteria. It is administered by Work and Income.
Veteran's Pension
- Who
- Eligible veterans who meet Work and Income age and service criteria.
- Why it matters
- Provides a regular income payment similar in role to New Zealand Superannuation for qualifying veterans.
- Next step
- Check service eligibility, age rules and how Veteran's Pension interacts with other income.
- Veteran's Pension is income support. VIP is practical home help. You may qualify for one, both, or neither.
- Some people under 65 on Veteran's Pension may also qualify for SuperGold transport concessions.
- Survivor and family supports have separate rules. Ask Veterans' Affairs if you are enquiring on behalf of someone else.
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Check benefits and supportsOfficial sources used for this guide
Sources reviewed 2026-09-10. No guessed payment amounts.