Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges your way, and managing everything on your own can feel overwhelming. If you’re a member of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme and are facing Significant Financial Hardship (SFH), we want you to know that you’re not alone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process and the help available.
What Is Significant Financial Hardship?
Significant Financial Hardship means you’re struggling to meet essential living costs or are facing unexpected financial challenges. If this sounds like your situation, you may be able to apply to access some of your KiwiSaver funds to help you get back on track. Examples of expenses you might claim for include:
- Mortgage or rent arrears that will result in losing your home
- Overdue utility bills like power or phone
- Medical and dental expenses for you or your family
- Essential repairs to your car or home
- Funeral costs for a loved one
While accessing SFH funds is meant to provide temporary relief, it’s important to note that it’s a last resort after exploring other financial assistance options.
How the SFH Process Works
We aim to make the application process as straightforward and supportive as possible. Here’s how it works:
- Get in Touch
If you’d like to make an SFH application, contact us. - Working with Debtfix
We partner with Debtfix, a registered charity, to handle the application process. Debtfix specialises in supporting people during tough financial times and ensures the process is handled with care and confidentiality. - Complete the online form
Debtfix provides an online form for you to fill out. This helps them understand your financial situation and we also rely on this information to make the final decision on your application. - Support from Debtfix
Once you’ve completed the form, Debtfix will reach out to you. In addition to helping you complete the Significant Financial Hardship application process, they can provide helpful information about other community or government support you might be eligible for. They can also offer free budgeting advice to help you manage your finances. - Application Review
After you complete the process with Debtfix, they will send your application to us for review. We will then carefully consider your situation and make the final decision. - Our Response
We’ll contact you to let you know our decision on your application. If your application is approved, we’ll confirm the amount we’ve approved and when the payment will be made to you.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Applying for SFH can feel overwhelming, but remember, you’re not alone. This process is designed to provide support and guidance when you need it most. Accessing your KiwiSaver funds early should only be considered as a last resort, so we encourage you to explore other financial assistance options that are available to you. Debtfix can help point you in the right direction.
We’re Here to Help
At Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, we’re committed to supporting you in your retirement savings journey. Whether you’re facing financial challenges or saving for your future, we’re here to help you.
Please contact us if you have any questions about your KiwiSaver account.
Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is managed and issued by The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board (trading as Anglican Financial Care).
