The Carer Support Subsidy is a payment designed to to allow full-time carers to have some time to rest and recuperate, while ensuring you continue to receive the care you need. It helps cover some of the cost of replacing your usual carer when they need a break. This could be for a few hours, a day, or longer, depending on your situation and the outcome of your assessment. The subsidy can also be used to purchase products or equipment that support your carer in their role.
Who is it for?
It is for anyone who is receiving ongoing support from a full-time carer. A full-time carer is someone who provides more than four hours of unpaid care a day. It could be your spouse, your son or daughter, or a friend. In some circumstances, family or whānau who are paid carers through a home support provider may also be eligible.
How do you get the Carer Support Subsidy?
The Carer Support Subsidy is accessed via an assessment. During the assessment, both your needs and the needs of your carer are taken into consideration.
If approved, you will be allocated a number of days or hours each year - the exact amount you receive will depend on your individual circumstances. You have the flexibility to decide when to use your hours, and how much to use each time.
How can the subsidy be used?
The Carer Support Subsidy can be used in a variety of ways to ensure you continue to receive care while your usual carer takes a break. For example, it may help pay for:
- A home support worker to care for you
- A trusted friend or neighbour to provide support
- Family or whānau to step in as a carer
- Attendance at a day programme
- A short stay in a residential care facility
- Products or equipment that support your care, e.g., a monitoring device for someone living with dementia. Before using this subsidy to purchase these, check if you qualify for subsidised loan equipment or home modification services.
Will the subsidy cover all costs?
Not always. The minimum daily rate is $83 (it may be higher in some regions), so it may only cover part of the cost of a service, product, or piece of equipment. For instance, there is often a large gap between the amount you receive for Carer Support and the cost of residential care, so be aware that you or your carer will need to pay the remaining amount.
How are payments claimed?
Your carer is responsible for managing the subsidy. This includes:
- Arranging the assessment and approval process
- Ensuring purchases meet funding guidelines
- Keeping receipts and supporting documents
- Tracking how much funding has been used
- Making bookings and organising replacement care
- Submitting claims for reimbursement
Claim forms and supporting documents can be found on the Health NZ website, along with tips for filling them out.
They can be emailed to csclaims@health.govt.nz or posted to: Private Bag 1942, Dunedin 9054.
You can also contact the Carer Support Line on freephone 0800 855 066
Updated: 14 Aug 2026