Limit: $8,100.00 for single
Weekly Payment
$25.00
Fortnightly
$50.00
Annual
$1,300.00
| Area | Max | Weekly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Area 1 | $175.00 | $25.00 | $1,300.00 |
| Area 2 | $130.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Area 3 | $100.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Area 4 | $75.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Rent/wk | Reduction | Weekly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| $200.00 | $150.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| $300.00 | $150.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| $400.00 | $150.00 | $25.00 | $1,300.00 |
| $500.00 | $150.00 | $25.00 | $1,300.00 |
| $600.00 | $150.00 | $25.00 | $1,300.00 |
| $700.00 | $150.00 | $25.00 | $1,300.00 |
Accommodation Supplement
A weekly payment to help with housing costs. Available to renters and homeowners who meet income and cash asset criteria. The amount depends on your rent, income, location area, and household composition.
Area Categories
New Zealand is divided into 4 areas based on housing costs. Area 1 (highest cost, e.g., Auckland CBD) has the highest maximum supplement, while Area 4 (rural) has the lowest. Maximum rates also differ for singles vs couples/families.
Cash Asset Limits
Single people with cash assets above $8,100.00 or couples above $16,200.00 are not eligible. Cash assets include savings, shares, and term deposits but exclude KiwiSaver and essential household items.
MSD-Aligned: Uses 2025-26 Accommodation Supplement rates, entry thresholds, and 25% income abatement rate.
How this weekly payment helps with rent and housing costs, and who qualifies
What is the Accommodation Supplement?
The Accommodation Supplement is a weekly payment from Work and Income (MSD) that helps you pay rent, board, or mortgage costs. It is not a full payment of your rent — it tops up what you can already afford. A single person renting in Auckland might receive up to NZ$165 per week, while someone in a rural area might get up to NZ$100 per week.
How does MSD decide which area I am in?
New Zealand is split into four area categories based on housing costs. Area 1 covers the most expensive places like central Auckland and Wellington CBD. Area 2 includes cities like Hamilton and Tauranga. Area 3 covers other urban towns, and Area 4 is rural areas. The area you live in sets the maximum amount you can receive.
Does my income affect how much I get?
Yes. MSD uses an income test. If your weekly income is above a set entry threshold — around NZ$590 for a single person — your supplement is reduced by 25 cents for every dollar over that limit. So if you earn NZ$100 above the threshold, your payment drops by NZ$25 per week.
What are the cash asset limits?
If your savings, shares, or term deposits exceed NZ$8,100 (single) or NZ$16,200 (couple), you are not eligible for the supplement. KiwiSaver balances, household items, and your car do not count as cash assets.
Can homeowners get the Accommodation Supplement?
Yes. The supplement is not just for renters. If you own your home and are paying a mortgage, you can apply too. Your housing costs are assessed in the same way — the payment helps cover mortgage repayments, rates, insurance, and essential repairs.
How do I apply for the Accommodation Supplement?
You apply through Work and Income (MSD), either online through MyMSD, by phone, or at a local office. You will need proof of your income, your tenancy agreement or mortgage documents, and details of your cash assets. Payments are usually added to your main benefit or paid separately if you are working.
Does the supplement change if I move to a different area?
Yes. If you move from a high-cost area (like Auckland) to a lower-cost area (like a small town), your maximum payment will change. For example, moving from Area 1 to Area 3 could reduce your maximum supplement by NZ$40 to NZ$60 per week. You must tell MSD when you move.
Is the Accommodation Supplement taxable?
No. The Accommodation Supplement is a non-taxable payment. You do not need to include it in your income tax return, and it does not affect your PAYE or ACC levy calculations. It is paid on top of your after-tax income.
IRD-Aligned: Based on 2025 MSD rates and thresholds. For personal advice, speak to a qualified tax agent or contact Work and Income.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current HMRC rates and thresholds for the 2025/26 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser before making financial decisions. Read our terms
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