Earthquake Support Subsidy - Does your business qualify?

The Earthquake Support Subsidy is here to help subsidise businesses and self-employed or sole traders that have been impacted by the 14 November earthquakes.

Businesses may qualify for this subsidy if they are unable to access their workplaces due to damages, cordons, or are situated in areas of the East Coast of the South Island.

Employers are eligible if they are operating a small to medium sized business with fewer than 20 employed staff or a sole trader.  Businesses with 20 or more employees may also be able to apply for this subsidy if you can provide evidence of sudden, large and sustained drop in revenue due to the earthquake.

If you're eligible Work and Income will pay you within 4 working days in a lump sum for a period of up to 8 weeks.

Businesses that have interruption/continuity insurances that will pay for wages & staff will not be covered under this subsidy.  But there may still be some financial assistance provided if there is a delay in receiving your insurance payment.   

Businesses that can continue to operate & meet obligations to pay their employees will not be covered under the earthquake subsidy.  If you are not eligible for the subsidy, Work and Income may have some other forms of financial assistance for your business.

You can contact Work and Income directly on 0800 779 997 or apply online. 

Have more questions?  Give us a call 03 578 3386 or email us askme@tva.co.nz - we can help.