Frequently Asked Questions

If you are diagnosed with a serious illness, you may be able to withdraw some or all of your KiwiSaver savings early.

The decision is made by our independent Supervisor, based on the criteria in the KiwiSaver Act 2006.

Do I qualify?

Under the KiwiSaver Act 2006, a Serious Illness means an injury, illness, or disability that:

• Makes you totally and permanently unable to work in any job suited to your experience, education, or training, or

• Poses a serious and imminent risk of death.

These criteria are strict. If you don’t meet them, you may wish to consider applying for a Significant Financial Hardship withdrawal instead.

What can you apply for?

If the Supervisor determines you meet the Serious Illness criteria, you may withdraw some or all of your KiwiSaver balance (including contributions from you, your employer, and the Government).

How to apply

1. Complete the Serious Illness Withdrawal Application (including the Statutory Declaration) and send it to us with:

2.• Medical evidence:

1.- Have your health practitioner complete the Declaration of Serious Illness found in the form.

2.- Attach a medical certificate that supports your claim (the Supervisor may request more information if needed).

• A certified copy of your ID

• Proof of residential address

3.• Proof of bank account in your name

What happens next

• We’ll review your application and contact you if any extra information is needed.

• Once complete, your application will be sent to our Supervisor (Public Trust) for assessment.

• The Supervisor makes the final decision and may request further medical details.

• We’ll notify you of the outcome by email.

• If approved, payment will be made to your personal bank account.

Please allow at least 10 business for processing.