What kind of help you can get

Moneytalks free helpline

You can contact MoneyTalks, a free financial helpline for advice and support from trained financial mentors. MoneyTalks can also connect you with services in your community.

Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm.

Saturday 10am to 2pm.

Feephone: 0800 345 123

FreeText: 4029

Email: help@moneytalks.co.nz

MoneyTalks helpline — with free online chat service.

Face-to-face help from a financial mentor

You can get face-to-face help with your household and personal finances from a financial mentor (sometimes known as a budget advisor).

A financial mentor can help you:

• deal with your immediate money problems
• support you to complete a Financial Plan of Action to help you achieve your goals
• negotiate reduced payments
• find other people who may be able to help.

Directory of services that offer financial mentoring

What to bring when you meet a financial mentor

• details of your household income
• bank account statements
• your regular bills
• details of any money you owe such as mortgages
• hire purchases and credit cards
• details of any other expenses.

Support groups

You can take part in a MoneyMates peer support group. You can talk openly about money and finances with people who are in a situation like yours.

You can:

• meet and learn from others
• talk about money problems — you do not need to share personal information
• learn how to make changes that can make it easier for you to manage your finances.

Directory of services that offer a MoneyMates support group

Who can get help

Anyone in financial hardship can ask for help from a financial mentor or join a MoneyMates group.

You do not need to be referred by Work and Income.

Who can benefit from support

You might benefit from support if:

• you worry about money
• you often have no money to pay bills
• talking about money with family cause arguments
• you cannot afford the things you want
• you’re always in debt
• your costs have increased
• you have given up hope of having money for holidays or other goals.

Working it out for yourself

Online help with your budget

How to plan your spending with a budget

Budgeting tool

Financial courses in your community

Sorted in Māori and Pasifika communities programme

Before you borrow money

If you’re trying to decide if borrowing money is the best option for you, the Sorted website helps you work out the costs.

Managing debt — what to know before borrowing money

Debt calculator

If you’re over 65, rather than borrowing, you may be able to get income from other sources.

Income after you turn 65