New Zealand’s government has confirmed an increase in NZ Superannuation payments effective from 1 April 2025. This adjustment reflects the annual cost-of-living review and aims to support retirees amid rising living expenses. Below is a detailed summary of the updated rates, eligibility criteria, and the payment schedule for May 2025.
NZ Superannuation Increase Confirmed for May 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Dates (May 2025) | Tuesday, 6 May 2025 Tuesday, 20 May 2025 |
| Eligibility Age | 65 years and over |
| Residency Requirement | Minimum of 10 years in NZ since age 20, including 5 years since age 50 |
| Fortnightly Payment Rates (After Tax, ‘M’ Code) | – Single, living alone or with dependent child: $1,076.84 – Single, sharing accommodation: $994.00 – Couple (both qualify): $1,656.68 total – Couple (only one qualifies): $828.34 |
| Tax Code Impact | Payments vary based on tax code; additional income may affect net payment |
| Official Link | Work and Income NZ Superannuation |
Payment Schedule for May 2025
NZ Superannuation payments are made fortnightly on Tuesdays. For May 2025, the scheduled payment dates are:
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Tuesday, 6 May 2025
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Tuesday, 20 May 2025
If a scheduled payment date falls on a public holiday, payments are made earlier.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for NZ Superannuation:
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Age: You must be 65 years or older.
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Residency: You need to have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since turning 20, with at least 5 of those years since turning 50. The required residency period increases based on your date of birth, reaching up to 20 years for those born on or after 1 July 1977.
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Citizenship or Residency Status: You must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
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Application: You need to apply for NZ Superannuation; it is not automatically granted upon reaching the eligible age.
Payment Rates (Effective 1 April 2025)
The amount you receive depends on your living situation and tax code. The following rates are after tax, assuming the standard ‘M’ tax code:
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Single, living alone or with a dependent child: $1,076.84 per fortnight
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Single, sharing accommodation: $994.00 per fortnight
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Couple (both qualify): $1,656.68 per fortnight (combined)
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Couple (only one qualifies): $828.34 per fortnight
These rates are subject to change based on your tax code and any additional income you may earn.
Tax Code Considerations
Your NZ Superannuation payment is subject to taxation. The tax code applied depends on your overall income:
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‘M’ Tax Code: Applied if NZ Superannuation is your only income.
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Other Tax Codes: If you have additional income (e.g., part-time work, rental income), a different tax code may apply, potentially reducing your net payment.
How to Apply
You can apply for NZ Superannuation:
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Online: Through the Work and Income website.
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In Person: At a Work and Income service centre.
It’s recommended to apply up to 12 weeks before your 65th birthday to ensure timely processing.
FAQ
What are the NZ Superannuation payment dates for May 2025?
Payments are scheduled for Tuesday, 6 May 2025, and Tuesday, 20 May 2025.
Who is eligible for NZ Superannuation?
Individuals aged 65 or older who have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since age 20, including 5 years since age 50, and are New Zealand citizens or permanent residents.
How much will I receive from NZ Superannuation?
Payment amounts vary based on your living situation and tax code. For example, a single person living alone with an ‘M’ tax code receives $1,076.84 per fortnight.
Does additional income affect my NZ Superannuation payments?
While additional income doesn’t affect your eligibility, it may change your tax code, potentially reducing your net payment.
How do I apply for NZ Superannuation?
You can apply online through the Work and Income website or in person at a Work and Income service centre. It’s advisable to apply up to 12 weeks before turning 65.
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