Questions and answers - the approvals process

Approvals process

Archive: This document has been retained for archival purposes; it has not been updated since the 2016 BFC service design was completed.

What Approval level do we need to deliver Building Financial Capability services?

Organisations delivering Building Financial Capability services need to meet Level 4 Approval Social Sector Accreditation Standards.

If we have another Approval status level (eg, Levels 1, 2 or 3) is our Approval status okay?

If your organisation holds a higher level of Approval (Levels 1-3), you will automatically be covered for Level 4 Approval.

If we are not funded by MSD but have another cross-government accreditation, does this count?

If you hold a cross-government accreditation, you can complete a streamlined assessment. Details of this streamlined assessment can be found on page two of the Social Sector Accreditation Standards application pack.

How do new providers become approved? Is there a grace period?

If a provider's application is successful and there is an intent to contract given by MSD, you can apply by completing the Social Sector Accreditation Standards application pack.

Once this is completed, please send to msd_provider_approval_team@msd.govt.nz and your application will be sent to an assessor for completion. The application should be completed within six weeks of being received.

There is a three month period from the time a contract is signed to when the Approval must be in place. This allows the provider to gather the appropriate documentation to submit with their application.

If the provider does not have their Approval in place by the time the three months is finished, this affects their contractual terms and conditions.

Who do we contact if we have more questions about the Approval process?

If you have any questions or queries related to Approvals, please contact msd_provider_approval_team@msd.govt.nz