At Anglican Financial Care, our commitment to our members goes beyond helping them save for retirement. When life takes an unexpected turn, we aim to provide support as a way of walking alongside our members during times of illness, uncertainty, and change.
Every year in New Zealand, thousands of people are told: “You have cancer.” These words can turn life upside down. For those individuals and their whānau, the journey ahead can be challenging not only; medically and emotionally, but financially as well.
A serious illness can affect more than just your health. It can limit your ability to work, disrupt your daily routines, and create financial stress. In these moments, having options and knowing support is available can offer real peace of mind. How Anglican Financial Care supports members facing serious illness
For members of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme and of other schemes through Anglican Financial Care, we offer several ways to help ease financial stress during a health crisis:
No matter which of our schemes you belong to, Anglican Financial Care is here to support you. We offer a range of options that may help ease financial pressure during a serious illness, because when life gets difficult, we believe no one should face it alone.
1. Accessing savings through ‘Serious Illness Withdrawal’
If you are facing a serious illness such as cancer or another condition, you may be eligible to apply for a Serious Illness Withdrawal from your account. This option is available to members of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme and some members of the Pension Fund.
To be eligible, the condition or illness must either permanently affect your ability to work or pose a serious and imminent risk to your life.
If you qualify, this type of withdrawal may allow you to access some or all of your retirement savings early. These funds can provide vital breathing space when you’re unable to work or facing unexpected medical bills.
It’s important to know that this option is available only for those who meet strict criteria, as confirmed by a medical professional. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to contact our team – we’re here to guide you through the process.
2. Financial hardship withdrawal options
If your illness causes significant financial pressure, but you don’t meet the threshold for a Serious Illness Withdrawal, you may be able to apply for a Significant Financial Hardship Withdrawal. This can provide early access to your savings to help cover essential living costs or medical expenses.
3. Mortgage support
If you hold a mortgage through Anglican Financial Care, we can work with you to ease your financial commitments. Adjusting your repayment terms or exploring other options can provide much-needed relief when your focus needs to be on your health.
4. Financial assistance grants and loans
Financial assistance is available to eligible Anglican clergy, their widows, widowers, and dependents to help cover costs such as medical treatment, travel for healthcare, or essential living expenses during times of hardship.
Every request is handled individually, with compassion and confidentiality.
5. Guidance and support
While we cannot provide you with financial advice around your insurance needs, we can listen, understand, and help you navigate your options, within your personal AFC product.
At AFC, you’re never just a number. Our team is here to walk alongside you, providing care and someone to speak to, when you need it most.
Reflecting on community and care
Days like Daffodil Day, held annually in August by the Cancer Society of New Zealand, remind us of the importance of standing together. Daffodil Day makes us think how we can each show up for people facing serious illness, whether through donations, encouragement, or practical support.
At Anglican Financial Care, this belief in walking alongside others is woven into everything we do. Serious illness can feel isolating, but with the right support, no one has to face it alone.
Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, The Retire Fund, and the New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Fund is managed and issued by The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board (trading as Anglican Financial Care). The Product Disclosure Statement can be found here Documents | Christian KiwiSaver Scheme.
