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KiwiSaver Government Contribution 2026: Get the Full $260.72
How much you need to put in by 30 June to get the full government contribution, and who can get it.
1. You and your pay
Your contribution rate
Going into your KiwiSaver
$2,177 a year
📈 Estimated balance at 65: $122,095 in 30 years (if your pay stays the same and returns average 4% a year).
🧭 Good to know
- The default rate rises again to 4% (employee and employer) on 1 April 2028.
- Self-employed or not working? You won't get employer money, but you can still get the government contribution by paying in yourself.
- You can use KiwiSaver towards your first home, or withdraw at 65.
Rules last checked: October 2026. ESCT thresholds from 1 April 2025. The future balance is an estimate, not a promise: returns go up and down. Not financial advice. 🔒 Everything stays on your device.
✅ Rules last checked:
📚 Official sources: IRD KiwiSaver changes
We build every tool from the official rules and re-check them when they change. Always confirm with the official source before you rely on a result.
🛠️ Spotted a mistake or an out-of-date rule? Tell us
Questions people ask
What is the KiwiSaver rate from April 2026?+
The default employee and employer rate went up from 3% to 3.5% on 1 April 2026, and will rise to 4% on 1 April 2028. You can also choose 4%, 6%, 8% or 10%.
How much is the government contribution?+
25 cents for every dollar you contribute, up to $260.72 a year (1 July to 30 June). To get the full amount you need to put in about $1,043 a year. It stops if your taxable income is over $180,000.
Why is my employer's contribution less than 3.5%?+
Employer contributions are taxed with ESCT (employer superannuation contribution tax) before they reach your account. The rate depends on your salary plus employer contributions: from 10.5% up to 39%.
Can I stay at 3%?+
Yes, you can apply to IRD for a temporary rate reduction to 3% for up to 12 months at a time. Your employer may then reduce theirs to 3% as well.