If you are permanently impaired as a result of an injury that occurred before 1 April 2002, you may be eligible for an independence allowance. The amount you receive depends on your level of impairment, and is paid in addition to any other entitlements or assistance you may receive from ACC for injuries.
What help can I get?
If you have a gradual process injury, you may be able to choose between an independence allowance or a lump sum payment. Contact ACC Claims for more information.
What if I am injured after 1 April 2002?
If you are permanently impaired as a result of an injury that occurred after 1 April 2002, see Lump sum payment.
How much will I receive?
If you are eligible, the maximum weekly amount is NZ$81.33. The amount you receive will be based on your level of impairment.
What do I need to do to get help?
To apply for an independence allowance:
- Call ACC on 0800 101 996 for a copy of the application pack. This will contain an application form, medical certificates and instructions from ACC about how to complete these
- Complete the medical certificates with your doctor. Your doctor must confirm that you have an impairment from your injury
- Return the completed application form and medical certificates to ACC, along with a copy of relevant medical records.
How am I eligible?
Your eligibility for an independence allowance depends on several things, including:
- the date of your injury. (For injuries that occurred after 1 April 2002 see: Lump sum payment)
- any payments you have received from ACC in the past, relating to the same injury
- the level of your impairment, which is determined using the ACC user handbook to AMA4 (PDF3.8M).
Important:
The help you will get depends on your individual circumstances. Please contact us to confirm if you are eligible, or to identify other ways in which we can help. See Contact ACC Claims for our contact information.
How long might ACC take to determine if I am eligible?
ACC regards 4 months as a reasonable timeframe to reach a decision regarding your eligibility for the Independence Allowance.
Please contact us if you have not heard from us within a reasonable period of time. See Contact ACC Claims for our contact information.
What happens next?
There are a number of things which need to happen before we can decide whether an independence allowance is payable to you. You do not have to pay for any required assessments.
- We will refer you to an assessor, who will contact you to make an appointment.
- The assessor will assess your level of impairment. They will send the results to ACC. We will let you know the results of the assessment in writing.
- If we decline your claim, we will let you know why. If you disagree with our decision, you can ask for it to be reviewed. See What if I have problems with a claim?
- If you are eligible for the allowance, it will be paid quarterly into your bank account. The independence allowance is not taxed.
- You may need a reassessment at a later date. If your impairment changes, your payments may change as well.
Related legislation
Accident Compensation (AC) Act 2001
- Section 377 to 379 (external link)
Accident Insurance Act 1998
- Schedule 1 (external link)
Published: 25 June 2010