Dealing with sickness in your family
When a family member falls seriously ill it can impact all areas of life. We hope it will never happen, but if it does there are a few things you can do to ensure you’re getting financial support.
01
Speak to your employer
Depending on your employment type you may have 10 days’ sick leave each year. Some employers choose to provide more than this. Others have compassionate policies for situations like serious illness. Find out what you're eligible for.
02
Claim any available insurance
It’s time to use the insurance you’ve been paying for. Talk to your provider and make a claim as soon as possible. There can be a process to work through, or a wait period before you get paid.
The most relevant insurance types are:
- Health insurance
- Total and permanent disability insurance
- Trauma cover
- Income protection
03
Adjust your budget
If the family member contributes to the household income, you might need to make some changes. Our guide on adjusting to life on one income could come in handy, even if it’s only a short-term change.
04
Talk to someone
Having a family member get ill is hard. Sudden life changes and managing treatment logistics can have an emotional toll. There are services that can help.
Youthline connects young people with free mental health support. Text 234 or call 0800 376 633.
Lifeline offers support for all New Zealanders on 0800 543 354, or by texting 4357.
If you’re finding it hard to make ends meet, ASB Support Finder is a tool available to all New Zealanders. Answer a few quick questions to see the government benefits and services you may be eligible for.
If you’re an ASB customer, you can call our Financial Assistance team on 0800 27 27 35 (option 3), or email financialassistance@asb.co.nz
