What is ACC and what does it cover in New Zealand?
The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) is New Zealand's no-fault personal injury scheme. Under the Accident Compensation Act 2001, ACC covers the cost of treatment and rehabilitation for personal injuries caused by accidents, including workplace injuries, motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, and treatment injuries caused by medical treatment.
How do I lodge an ACC claim in New Zealand?
Most ACC claims are lodged by your treating health provider — your doctor, physiotherapist, or hospital — at the time you receive treatment. You can also lodge a claim directly with ACC online at acc.co.nz or by calling ACC. There is no fee to lodge a claim.
What compensation can ACC pay me in New Zealand?
ACC can pay for medical and rehabilitation costs, weekly compensation of 80 percent of your pre-injury earnings if you cannot work, lump sum payments for permanent impairment, home help and childcare, vehicle or home modifications if permanently disabled, and survivor grants and funeral costs for fatal injuries.
What is a treatment injury and how do I claim for it under ACC?
A treatment injury is a personal injury caused by treatment from a registered health professional that is not a necessary part or ordinary consequence of the treatment. Examples include surgical complications, wrong medications, or injuries during procedures. You lodge a treatment injury claim with ACC directly or through your health provider.
What should I do if ACC declines my claim in New Zealand?
If ACC declines your claim you have the right to request a review. You must apply for a review within three months of the decision. Reviews are conducted by independent reviewers and are free to apply for. If the review is unsuccessful you can appeal to the District Court.
How long does an ACC claim take to be decided in New Zealand?
ACC must decide most claims within 21 days of receiving the claim. Complex claims, such as treatment injury claims, may take longer. If ACC does not decide within the required timeframe it is treated as a declined claim and you can apply for review.
Can I receive ACC and also sue someone in New Zealand?
Generally no. New Zealand's ACC scheme is a no-fault system that replaced the right to sue for personal injury in most circumstances. You cannot bring a civil claim for personal injury covered by ACC. However, you can still sue for exemplary damages in cases of intentional harm.
Am I covered by ACC if I am self-employed or a contractor in New Zealand?
Yes. Self-employed people and contractors are covered by ACC for personal injuries. However, the level of weekly compensation depends on whether you have paid ACC levies for self-employed cover. If you have only paid the earner levy your weekly compensation will be based on a lower threshold.
What is the ACC sensitive claims service in New Zealand?
ACC's sensitive claims service covers people who have experienced sexual abuse or assault. Claims can be lodged confidentially through a registered health professional. ACC funds counselling, psychological treatment, and other support services under this scheme.
How does uplaw.ai help with ACC claims in New Zealand?
Describe your injury and circumstances in the chat — when it happened, how you were injured, and what treatment you have received. uplaw.ai will identify your ACC entitlements, explain the claims process, and help you prepare any review application if your claim has been declined.
Free to start
Injured or had a claim declined? Tell uplaw.ai what happened.
No account required. uplaw.ai identifies your ACC entitlements and helps you lodge a claim or prepare a review application.