SOCIAL SECURITY

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXII, 15 April 1939, Page 8

SOCIAL SECURITY

PENSION PAYMENTS I United Preen Aeeociatinr.l AUCKLAND, This Day. With the idea of participating in the age benefits under the Social Security Act. it is reported that some elderly persons have been liquidating various assets which had been returning them a small income, and investiing the proceeds in a home. Land agents state that sales of small house properties have been made in the past few weeks to persons who intend to 'ffaim age benefits

A married couple, both of whom are 60 years or more, are entitled to £1 10s each, and may have up to £1 a week other income. The possession of a house in which they live does not affect their eligibility for the full pension. The tendency mentioned represents the endeavour by the persons concerned to readjust their position so as to obtain the maximum benefit of the legislation.

Inquiries are also said to be in process by Government superannuants who propose to capitalise their superannuation for the purpose of purchasing a home. They will then claim social security age benefits. THE SICKNESS PROVISIONS PAYMENT THROUGH LODGES The arrangements which have been made for the payment of sickness benefits under the Social Security Act to members of friendly societies through the latter, as provided for in section cO of the Act, were discussed with representatives of practically all the friendly societies in Auckland by the ocal registrar, Mr C. Dunn, at a meeting on Thursday night, and a satisfactory understanding was reached.

The procedure has been designed to use the facilities which the societies already possess, and to make it easier for claimants to carry out the formalities. Until Part 111. of the Act, relating to medical and hospital benefits, is in operation, the form of medical certificate used by friendly societies for their own purposes will be accepted when applications for sickness benefit under the Act are made by members. The procedure is to take effect immediately.