NZ Super Eligibility Calculator
Check when you can claim NZ Super (age 65+, residency 10 yrs total with 5 after age 50). Current rates for single/couple living arrangements.
About this calculator
This calculator implements NZ Super eligibility (age 65, residency) from Work and Income (MSD). Last consulted 1 April 2026. Verify the figures yourself by following the link.
Current NZ Super eligibility
FY 2026-27 (rates from 1 April 2026)- •Age requirement: 65
- •Residency since age 20: ≥10 years (rising to 20 by 2042)
- •Residency after age 50: ≥5 years
- •Single living alone (after tax M): $555.15/wk · $28,868/yr
- •Single sharing: $512.45/wk
- •Couple, each: $427.04/wk
- •Winter energy payment (May-Oct): +$20.46 single / +$31.82 couple
- •Income/asset test: NONE — universal pension
Source: WINZ — NZ Super
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.
How NZ Super eligibility is determined
NZ Super requires: age 65, NZ citizen/resident, lived in NZ 10+ years since age 20 (with 5+ years after age 50). No income or asset test.
- 1
Age requirement
Must be 65 years old
Government may raise to 67 in future (proposed).
- 2
Residency requirement
Lived in NZ ≥ 10 years since age 20 AND ≥ 5 years after age 50
Increases to 20 yrs from 2026 for new applicants.
- 3
Application
Apply 12 weeks before 65th birthday via MSD
Pension starts day after 65th birthday.
- 4
Payment rates (married couple)
After-tax weekly: single alone $555.15, single sharing $512.45, couple each $427.04
Plus winter energy payment (May-Oct) +$20.46/wk single / +$31.82 couple.
Worked example
Inputs: 65, lived in NZ 30 yrs (10 after age 50), single alone
Result: Eligible. Weekly $555.15, annual $28,868 after tax.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I get NZ Super?
How much is NZ Super in 2026?
Do I have to retire to get NZ Super?
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, 2026-27)
| Single, living alone | $555.15/week · $1,110.30/fortnight · $28,868/year |
| Single, sharing | $512.45/week · $1,024.90/fortnight · $26,647/year |
| Couple, both qualify (each) | $427.04/week · $854.08/fortnight · $22,206/year |
| Couple, both qualify (combined) | $854.08/week · $1,708.16/fortnight · $44,412/year |
| Couple, one qualifies | $427.04/week · $854.08/fortnight (the qualifying partner) |
Pre-tax rates higher; net depends on tax code (M, M SL, S, etc.). Winter energy payment adds $20.46/wk single / $31.82/wk couple from May–October.
Residency Requirements
| Age | 65 or older |
| Total residency in NZ | 10 years since age 20 |
| Residency after age 50 | At least 5 of those 10 years |
| Citizenship | NZ, 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; $555.15/week ($1,110.30/fortnight, $28,868/year) after tax
- Age check: turns 65 in 2027 ✅
- Residency: 30 years total, all post-age 22 ✅
- Post-50 residency: at least 5 years ✅
- Apply 12 weeks before 65th birthday
- 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 reviewed: