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NZ Super Eligibility Calculator

Check when you can claim NZ Superannuation based on age (65+), residency (10 years total, 5 after age 50), and current rates for single/couple living arrangements.

Updated 2026-27 FYData stays on your deviceIRD sourced data

Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates for general information purposes only. Results should not be relied upon as professional financial, tax, or legal advice. Tax rates and thresholds are based on publicly available IRD data and may change. Always consult a qualified tax agent or financial adviser for advice specific to your circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I get NZ Super?
You can get NZ Superannuation if you are aged 65 or older, are a NZ or Australian citizen or permanent resident, and have lived in NZ for at least 10 years since age 20, with at least 5 of those years after age 50. The age requirement is set at 65 in 2026 (no plans to raise it have been legislated). You can apply online via MyMSD up to 12 weeks before you turn 65. Payments start from your 65th birthday. Source: Work and Income — NZ Super.
How much is NZ Super in 2026?
NZ Super rates from 1 April 2026 (after tax at code M) are approximately: single living alone $538/week ($1,076/fortnight); single sharing $497/week ($994/fortnight); married/civil union/de facto couple where both qualify $828/week combined ($1,656/fortnight). Higher pre-tax rates apply if you have other income and use a different tax code (S, ST, etc.). Rates are reviewed every April based on average wage growth. Source: Work and Income.
Do I have to retire to get NZ Super?
No. NZ Super is not means-tested or work-tested. You can keep working full-time and still receive NZ Super in full. Many Kiwis do exactly this. However, NZ Super is taxable income, so you should choose the appropriate tax code (typically M if it is your main income, or S/ST if you have other employment). You also continue paying ACC earner’s levy on any wages. Source: IRD and Work and Income.

NZ Superannuation is a fortnightly payment from MSD for everyone aged 65 or older who meets residency requirements. Unlike many countries, it is not means-tested or based on prior contributions — just age and residency.

How this calculator works

Enter your date of birth, years lived in NZ since age 20, and current living arrangement. The calculator tells you if you qualify, when you can apply (3 months before turning 65), and the current weekly payment.

NZ Super Rates (after tax M, fortnightly, 2026-27)

Single, living alone~$1,076 per fortnight
Single, sharing~$994 per fortnight
Couple, both qualify~$1,656 per fortnight (combined)
Couple, one qualifies~$828 per fortnight (the qualifying partner)

Pre-tax rates higher; net depends on tax code (M, M SL, S, etc.).

Residency Requirements

Age65 or older
Total residency in NZ10 years since age 20
Residency after age 50At least 5 of those 10 years
CitizenshipNZ, Australian, or permanent resident

Pre-2024 rules applied 5 years total residency — transitional rules may apply.

Worked Examples

Born 1962 (turning 65 mid-2027), lived in NZ 30 years since age 22, single living alone

Eligible from June 2027; can apply March 2027; ~$1,076/fortnight after tax

  1. Age check: turns 65 in 2027 ✅
  2. Residency: 30 years total, all post-age 22 ✅
  3. Post-50 residency: at least 5 years ✅
  4. Apply 12 weeks before 65th birthday
  5. Choose tax code: M (no other income) or S (other income)

Built and maintained by Konstantin Iakovlev. Data sourced from the IRD and official New Zealand government sources.

Last updated:

Official Sources

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