Made redundant at 60 or older: Jobseeker, NZ Super and KiwiSaver

Between redundancy and 65

• Jobseeker Support is the usual payment. The rates, income limits and work obligations apply as for anyone else; see the Jobseeker guides.
• If a health condition limits your work, a medical certificate may reduce obligations, and Supported Living Payment may apply if you're permanently and severely unable to work.
• Ask about Accommodation Supplement, Winter Energy Payment (automatic), and a Community Services Card.
• You can start NZ Super at 65, even if you are still working; it's not income-tested.

Applying for NZ Super

• Eligibility: aged 65+, NZ citizen, permanent resident or residence-class visa, and you meet the residence length requirement.
• Apply when your 65th birthday is within 12 weeks, or after you turn 65. If you apply before or on your birthday you're paid from your 65th birthday; if you apply later, from the date you apply.
• Residence: for people turning 65 from 1 July 2024 the requirement rises from 10 years to 20 years, phased in by date of birth (for example 10 years if born on or before 30 June 1959, 15 years for those born 1 July 1967 to 30 June 1969, and 20 years if born on or after 1 July 1977). Years are counted from age 20 and at least 5 must fall after age 50. Time in some agreement countries and Realm countries can count. Check Work and Income's table for your date of birth, and check early if you are a migrant.
• Once approved, your Community Services Card is replaced by a combo SuperGold card.

NZ Super is taxed, and rates change each 1 April. Check the current rate at workandincome.govt.nz or sorted.org.nz.

KiwiSaver and redundancy

• KiwiSaver is generally locked in until the age of 65 (the eligibility age) unless you meet hardship or other exceptions. Check the current rules with your provider or kiwisaver.govt.nz: I could not verify the details of withdrawals from an official source this session.
• If your employer contributions stop after redundancy, you can keep paying in yourself, or take a contributions holiday if you can't afford it.
• Don't cash out in panic. Talk to a free money mentor (MoneyTalks 0800 345 123) first.

Before you go: partners, overseas and the bridging gap

• If your partner is 65+ and on NZ Super while you're on Jobseeker, the couple rates and income tests change; ask Work and Income to recalculate.
• If you plan to move overseas, NZ Super and Veteran's Pension can continue for 28 days; longer absences need a call to the Seniors line (0800 552 002) so you aren't overpaid.