Reference
Last updated: April 2026
Reference rates for the main NZ government benefits and entitlements. Rates are set by the government and typically adjusted on 1 April each year. All amounts shown are after-tax (net) unless stated otherwise. Administered by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and Inland Revenue (IRD).
Working for Families Calculator PAYE Calculator Budget Calculator| Living Situation | Gross (before tax) | Net (after tax, M code) |
|---|---|---|
| Single, living alone | ~$580/week | ~$550/week |
| Single, sharing | ~$535/week | ~$510/week |
| Couple (each) | ~$445/week | ~$425/week |
| Couple (combined) | ~$890/week | ~$850/week |
Eligibility: age 65, NZ citizen/permanent resident, 10 years' residency (5 after age 50). No income or asset test. Apply through MSD 12 weeks before turning 65.
| Situation | Net Weekly Rate (approx) |
|---|---|
| Single, 25+ | ~$350/week |
| Single, 20 to 24 | ~$290/week |
| Single, 18 to 19 (away from home) | ~$260/week |
| Couple (combined) | ~$580/week |
| Sole parent, 1+ children | ~$470/week |
| Situation | Net Weekly Rate (approx) |
|---|---|
| Sole parent, youngest child under 14 | ~$470/week |
| Situation | Net Weekly Rate (approx) |
|---|---|
| Single, 18+ | ~$380/week |
| Couple (combined) | ~$635/week |
| Credit | Amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Family Tax Credit (FTC) | $127/week (eldest child), $104/week (subsequent) | Families with dependent children, income-tested |
| In-Work Tax Credit (IWTC) | $72/week | Working families (not on a main benefit), minimum hours |
| Best Start | $69/week | Children under 1 (universal), 1-3 (income-tested) |
| Minimum Family Tax Credit | Top-up to minimum weekly income | Working families below minimum threshold |
| Abatement rate | 27 cents per dollar over $42,700 | Total WFF reduces as family income rises |
| Area | Single | Couple, no children | With children |
|---|---|---|---|
| Area 1 (Auckland central) | $190 | $225 | $305 |
| Area 2 (Auckland outer, Wellington, Queenstown) | $160 | $195 | $260 |
| Area 3 (Hamilton, Tauranga, Christchurch, Nelson) | $120 | $155 | $210 |
| Area 4 (rest of NZ) | $85 | $120 | $165 |
The Accommodation Supplement is income- and cash-asset-tested. It helps with rent, board, or mortgage costs. Apply through Work and Income.
| Entitlement | Amount / Detail |
|---|---|
| Winter Energy Payment | $31.82/week (single) or $49.98/week (couple/dependents). May to October. |
| Disability Allowance | Up to $75.17/week for ongoing disability-related costs |
| Childcare Subsidy | $3.00 to $5.50/hour (income-tested, via MSD) |
| Rates Rebate | Up to ~$750/year for low-income homeowners |
| Community Services Card | Access to subsidised health services (income-tested) |
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