Every year the Government contributes up to $521 to eligible KiwiSaver accounts. To get the full amount you must have contributed at least $1042.86^ in the period 1 July to 30 June (the KiwiSaver year).
Generally, if you’re on an annual salary or wages of $35,000 or more and are contributing at a minimum rate of 3% from your pay, or if you make voluntary contributions of at least $21 a week during the whole KiwiSaver year, you’re likely to receive the full government contribution.
Every bit counts
If you can’t contribute $1042.86 in the year, don’t worry. The government will still contribute 50 cents for every dollar you save (up to the maximum amount of $521). For example, if you contribute $100 you will get a government contribution of $50. This will all add up come retirement.
The government contributions can be used towards first home deposits so it makes sense to try and receive as much of the contributions as you can.
Who is eligible?
You can get a government contribution between the age 18 and your qualifying date* and if you
- live mainly in New Zealand or
- are a Government employee living overseas or you are volunteering (or working for a token payment) for specified charitable organisations.
If you turn 18 part-way through the year your government contribution will be based on how many days you’ve been eligible.
This also applies if you join KiwiSaver part-way through the year or you reach your qualifying date.
How can I check my contributions?
- To find out your latest balance, register or login to your account on your KiwiSaver provider’s website.
What if I haven’t saved enough?
You can make a voluntary contribution – just make sure you top up your KiwiSaver account before 30 June.
If you have children or grandchildren who are eligible, check to see if they are on track to get the full amount. Helping your children and grandchildren receive what is essentially free money from the government could make a big difference to the amount they can withdraw for their first home deposit.
How do I claim the government contributions?
You don’t have to do anything to claim the Government contribution. Your KiwiSaver provider will make the claim on your behalf. The contribution will appear in your KiwiSaver account within a month of your provider making the claim – usually late July or early August.
For more information about KiwiSaver government contributions contact your AdviceFirst adviser on 0800 438 238 or letstalk@advicefirst.co.nz. You can also watch a video by AdviceFirst Head of Partnerships Camilla Tumai who explains more about the government contributions here.
^Employer contributions, past government contributions and funds moved from Australian retirement schemes do not count towards the $1,042.86.
*Qualifying date means:
- If you joined KiwiSaver on or after 1 July 2019, you could get the government contribution up until you turn 65.
- If you joined KiwiSaver before to 1 July 2019, you could get the government contribution up until you turn 65, or have been a KiwiSaver member for 5 years, whichever is the later.
