Savings Optimisation
KiwiSaver Government Contribution
The KiwiSaver government contribution (formerly "member tax credit") is IRD's annual top-up: 25¢ for every dollar you contribute, up to a maximum of $260.72 per KiwiSaver year (1 July – 30 June). From 1 July 2025 the match rate was halved from 50¢ — so the window to collect is tighter than it used to be.
What is this?
KiwiSaver Government Contribution is administered by IRD. KiwiSaver Act 2006, s.226
Am I eligible?
- KiwiSaver member aged 18 to 64 (and not yet eligible to withdraw retirement funds)
- Mainly reside in New Zealand
- Contributions of at least $1042.86 from 1 July – 30 June each year
- Income cap of $180,000 on eligibility
How much could I get?
Match rate: 25¢ per $1 of your own contributions.
Maximum: $260.72/year if you contribute at least $1042.86.
Deposited each August by IRD into your KiwiSaver account for the previous July–June year.
Rates current as of Budget 2025. Personal amounts depend on your situation.
How to apply
- Contribute at least $1042.86/year (≈$20/week) to unlock the full government match
- You can increase your contribution rate through your employer or make voluntary contributions
- Log in to your KiwiSaver provider's website to top up if you're short
- The government contribution is calculated annually (1 July – 30 June)
Documents you'll need
- · No documents needed — adjust through your employer or KiwiSaver provider
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to contribute for the full KiwiSaver government contribution?
$1042.86 per KiwiSaver year (1 July – 30 June). That's roughly $20/week. Contributions can come from salary deductions, voluntary top-ups, or both.
Did the KiwiSaver government contribution change in 2025?
Yes — from 1 July 2025 the match rate dropped from 50¢ to 25¢ per dollar, and the annual maximum dropped from $521.43 to $260.72. Contributions before that date still earned the higher rate.
When does IRD pay the KiwiSaver government contribution?
Each August, once the KiwiSaver year (ending 30 June) closes. The deposit shows up in your KiwiSaver account, not your bank account.
Can self-employed people get the government contribution?
Yes. Self-employed and non-earners can top up voluntarily through their provider before 30 June each year to unlock the full match.
Related benefits you might also qualify for
KiwiSaver PIR Rate
Your Prescribed Investor Rate (PIR) decides how much tax KiwiSaver pays on returns. See 2026 brackets (10.5/17.5/28%) and how to fix a wrong rate.
KiwiSaver First Home Withdrawal
Use your KiwiSaver for a first-home deposit in NZ. Withdraw your contributions, employer match, and government contribution after 3 years' membership.
Independent Earner Tax Credit (IETC)
IETC gives eligible workers up to $520/year tax back. See 2026 income band ($24,000–$70,000) and how to claim.
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