Kiwis Can Claim $78.60 Weekly in 2025: In 2025, New Zealanders may be eligible to receive up to $78.60 weekly through various government assistance programs. These payments are designed to support Kiwis with disabilities, encourage retirement savings, and ensure older residents enjoy a secure income. Understanding which programs offer this support—and whether you qualify—is key to getting the help you’re entitled to. Whether you’re navigating rising living costs, dealing with a long-term health issue, or simply planning for your future, this guide breaks it all down with facts, examples, and official links to help you apply easily and confidently.
Kiwis Can Claim $78.60 Weekly in 2025
Accessing up to $78.60 weekly in government support can make a meaningful difference in your financial well-being, especially when combined with other benefits like NZ Super or KiwiSaver contributions. These programs aren’t just safety nets—they’re stepping stones to better health, greater independence, and a more secure future. If you think you might qualify, don’t wait. Visit the official websites linked throughout this article, gather your documents, and apply today. You’ve earned this support, and it’s there to help you thrive.
| Program | Weekly Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Disability Allowance | Up to $80.35 | Individuals with ongoing disability-related costs |
| KiwiSaver Government Contribution | Up to $10.03 | Individuals aged 18+ contributing at least $1,042.86 annually to KiwiSaver |
| New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) | Varies | Residents aged 65+ meeting residency requirements |
What Is the Disability Allowance?
The Disability Allowance is a non-taxable weekly payment of up to $80.35, offered by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD). It’s intended for people who have ongoing, extra costs related to a disability or health condition that is likely to last six months or more.
What Can It Help Pay For?
The Disability Allowance helps cover recurring medical and disability-related expenses, such as:
- Doctor’s visits and hospital fees
- Prescription medications
- Travel to and from treatment providers
- Special foods and supplements
- Medical alarms or alert systems
- Heating and electricity due to medical needs
- Counseling or therapy
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- Normally live in New Zealand
- Have a disability or health condition expected to last at least 6 months
- Provide a medical certificate confirming your condition and costs
- Meet income limits, based on household composition
Income Limits (2025)
| Family Situation | Maximum Weekly Income (before tax) |
|---|---|
| Single, aged 16–17 | $675.60 |
| Single, aged 18+ | $843.78 |
| Couple (no children) | $1,256.07 |
| Sole Parent with 1 child | $942.23 |
| Sole Parent with 2+ children | $992.74 |
What About KiwiSaver Contributions?
KiwiSaver is New Zealand’s voluntary savings initiative for retirement. What many people don’t realize is that the government contributes up to $521.43 per year—roughly $10 per week—for eligible participants. This free money can make a real difference in your long-term financial security.
How It Works
For every dollar you contribute, the government contributes 50 cents, up to a maximum of $521.43 per year. To qualify for the full amount, you must contribute at least $1,042.86 between July 1 and June 30 each year.
Eligibility
You qualify for the government contribution if you:
- Are aged 18 or older
- Are not yet eligible for NZ Super
- Mainly live in New Zealand
- Have a KiwiSaver account
Contributions can be made automatically through your job or manually via Inland Revenue or your KiwiSaver provider.
What Is NZ Superannuation?
New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) is a fortnightly payment for citizens or residents aged 65 and over. It provides a stable income to help cover basic living costs during retirement.
Basic Requirements
To qualify for NZ Super, you must:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- Have lived in New Zealand for 10 years since turning 20, with 5 of those years after turning 50
Current Payment Rates (April 2025)
As of April 1, 2025, the before-tax NZ Super rates are:
- Single, living alone: $544.50 weekly
- Single, sharing: $502.30 weekly
- Married/partnered (each): $419.20 weekly
Other Government Benefits So Kiwis Can Claim $78.60 Weekly in 2025
While the focus here is on programs around the $78.60 mark, there are other benefits Kiwis might qualify for:
- Accommodation Supplement – Helps with rent or mortgage costs
- Winter Energy Payment – Paid automatically from May to October to help with heating costs
- Jobseeker Support – Financial help while looking for work or unable to work
- Supported Living Payment – For people with a serious health condition or caring for someone who does
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get the Disability Allowance and NZ Super at the same time?
Yes. If you qualify for both, you can receive the Disability Allowance in addition to NZ Super.
Is the Disability Allowance taxed?
No, the Disability Allowance is a non-taxable payment.
Do I need to repay the KiwiSaver government contribution?
No, it’s not a loan. It’s a free top-up from the government to boost your savings.
What if I only work part-time—can I still get the full KiwiSaver contribution?
Yes, as long as your total annual contributions are at least $1,042.86. You can top up manually if needed.
How long does it take to get approved for the Disability Allowance?
Processing can take 1–4 weeks depending on your application. Ensure you provide all required documentation to speed things up.
I didn’t know I qualified—can I backdate payments?
Some benefits, like the Disability Allowance, can be backdated, but usually only to the date you applied. That’s why applying early is key.
