Getting NZ Super in May 2025: If you’re receiving New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) in May 2025, this comprehensive guide will help you understand how much you’re entitled to and when to expect your payments. Whether you’re new to NZ Super or have been receiving it for years, knowing the updated payment dates, rates, and other benefits can make managing your finances much easier.
This article explains what NZ Super is, how much you’ll get, when it arrives, and extra support you may receive, such as the Winter Energy Payment. Let’s break it down in simple, easy-to-understand steps.
Getting NZ Super in May 2025
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Dates | Tuesday, 6 May 2025 and Tuesday, 28 May 2025 |
| NZ Super Rates (From 1 April 2025) | Single, living alone: $1,076.84; Single, sharing: $994.00; Couple (each): $828.34 |
| Winter Energy Payment | Starts 1 May 2025 — Single: $20.46/week; Couple or with dependent child: $31.82/week |
| Tax Codes | Affects net payment. Common codes: M, S, SH, ST, SA |
| Where to Manage Payments | Through your MyMSD account or by contacting Work and Income |
Getting NZ Super in May 2025 means you’ll receive timely, reliable payments to support your retirement. Understanding your payment schedule, knowing how much you’ll get, and making the most of benefits like the Winter Energy Payment ensures you’re well-prepared.
Don’t forget to:
- Use the correct tax code
- Keep your personal information up to date
- Check your MyMSD account regularly
With a little planning, you can make the most of every payment.
What is NZ Super?
NZ Super is a government pension for people aged 65 and over, designed to support older New Zealanders during retirement. It’s paid every two weeks and is not income- or asset-tested, meaning you can get it even if you have savings or other income.
You qualify for NZ Super if:
- You’re 65 or older
- You’re a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- You’ve lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since age 20, with five of those years after age 50
May 2025 Payment Dates
NZ Super is paid every second Tuesday. In May 2025, payments will be made on:
- Tuesday, 6 May 2025
- Tuesday, 28 May 2025
Payments are automatically deposited into your bank account. If a public holiday falls near the payment date, you may receive your money a day early.
How Much You’ll Get in 2025
As of 1 April 2025, the NZ Super rates increased slightly to reflect cost-of-living adjustments. Here’s a quick overview of the fortnightly amounts:
For Singles:
- Living alone or with a dependent child: $1,076.84
- Sharing accommodation: $994.00
For Couples (each person):
- Both qualify: $828.34
- Only one partner qualifies: $828.34 for the eligible partner (other circumstances apply for non-qualified partner)
These figures are based on tax code ‘M’, which is the most common for those who have no other income.
How Tax Codes Affect Your Payments
Your tax code determines how much is deducted from your NZ Super payments. Using the wrong tax code can result in over- or underpayment, so it’s important to get it right.
Common Tax Codes:
- M – Main income, no other income (most common for retirees)
- S – Secondary income (if you have a part-time job or rental income)
- SH/ST/SA – Higher rates based on your secondary income levels
For example:
- A single person living alone under tax code S might receive slightly less than the base rate due to higher deductions.
If you’re unsure of your tax code, you can check it or update it by contacting Inland Revenue or through your MyIR account.
Winter Energy Payment: Extra Support Starting in May
From 1 May to 1 October 2025, those receiving NZ Super will also receive the Winter Energy Payment to help cover heating costs.
Winter Energy Payment Rates:
- Single person: $20.46 per week
- Couples or those with dependent children: $31.82 per week
This payment is:
- Automatic – no need to apply
- Non-taxable
- Doesn’t affect other entitlements
You can choose to opt out if you feel you don’t need the extra assistance.
Managing Your NZ Super: What You Need to Know
Staying on top of your NZ Super details ensures you receive the correct amount and avoid interruptions.
Check Your Payment Info
Log in to MyMSD to:
- View payment history
- Check upcoming payment dates
- Update banking info
Update Personal Details
Notify Work and Income if:
- Your living situation changes (e.g., you move in with a partner)
- You begin earning additional income
- You move overseas (this may affect your payments)
Confirm or Update Tax Code
Check your tax code through Inland Revenue or ask your accountant or tax agent for help. Ensuring your tax info is current will prevent payment errors.
Extra Tip: Planning for Overseas Travel
Planning to travel outside New Zealand? You can usually keep receiving NZ Super for up to 26 weeks while you’re overseas — but only under certain conditions.
Before you travel:
- Contact Work and Income
- Let them know your travel dates
- Check if your destination qualifies for continuing payments under an international agreement
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FAQs About Getting NZ Super in May 2025
When will I receive my NZ Super in May 2025?
Your payments will arrive on Tuesday, 6 May and Tuesday, 28 May 2025. Payments are direct-deposited to your bank account.
How much will I receive from NZ Super?
It depends on your living situation and tax code. For example, if you live alone and are taxed at code M, you’ll get $1,076.84 fortnightly.
Do I need to apply for the Winter Energy Payment?
No — it’s automatically added to your NZ Super from 1 May to 1 October each year, as long as you’re eligible.
What happens if I travel overseas?
You can usually receive NZ Super for up to 26 weeks while overseas, but you need to let Work and Income know before you leave.
How do I update my tax code?
You can update your tax code via the Inland Revenue website or speak to a tax agent. It’s essential to use the correct tax code to avoid payment issues.
