Help for families
| Payment or credit | Who it’s for | Who pays it |
|---|---|---|
| Family Tax Credit | Families with children, less as income rises | IRD, or Work and Income if you’re on a benefit |
| In-Work Tax Credit | Working families with children who aren’t on a main benefit | IRD |
| Minimum Family Tax Credit | Working families, to bring income up to a set minimum | IRD |
| Best Start | Families with a new baby | IRD, or Work and Income if you’re on a benefit |
| FamilyBoost | Families paying for early childhood education, as a rebate | IRD |
Working for Families credits are paid weekly or fortnightly, or as a lump sum at the end of the tax year. They’re based on your family income for the year, before tax, so you give IRD an estimate at the start. Tell IRD about changes in your income through myIR to avoid a bill or a shortfall later.
Other help worth checking
- Accommodation Supplement to help with rent, board or mortgage costs. You don’t have to be on a benefit to get it.
- The independent earner tax credit (IETC): up to $520 a year for people earning $24,000 to $70,000 who don’t get Working for Families, a benefit or NZ Super. See the IETC explained.
- The KiwiSaver government contribution: put in at least $1,042.86 between 1 July and 30 June, and the government adds $260.72, unless you earn over $180,000. It’s easy to miss if you’re self-employed, on parental leave or not working.
- The Community Services Card for cheaper doctor visits and prescriptions on a lower income.
- Jobseeker Support if you’re looking for work, and StudyLink for students.
How to check what you can get
- Work and Income’s “check what you might get” tool covers most payments, including help for people in work.
- myIR shows your Working for Families credits and lets you update your income.
- MoneyTalks (0800 345 123) can connect you with a free financial mentor, who can help you work out what you’re entitled to and apply.
When you apply, have your IRD number, your and your partner’s income, your rent or mortgage costs and your children’s details ready.
Why it matters
These payments can add thousands of dollars a year for a family. Put them in your budget, and use any lump sums to build an emergency fund or clear expensive debt. To see your pay with the IETC, choose tax code ME in the PAYE calculator.