Working for FamiliesNov 1, 2025
How do I apply for Working for Families and what are the income thresholds?
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Working for Families is a package of tax credits to help New Zealand families with the cost of raising children. Here is how to apply and understand the income thresholds.
How to apply:
- Online (recommended): Log in to your myIR account at ird.govt.nz and apply through the Working for Families section
- By phone: Call IRD on 0800 227 773
- In person: Visit a Work and Income office if you are receiving a benefit
What you need to apply:
- Your IRD number and your partner's IRD number (if applicable)
- IRD numbers for all dependent children
- An estimate of your annual family income
Income thresholds and abatement:
- Full Working for Families payments are available if your annual family income is NZ$42,700 or less
- For every dollar your family earns above NZ$42,700, your total payments reduce by 27 cents
- This abatement applies to the combined total of all your Working for Families credits
Summary of available credits:
| Credit | Who it is for | Key requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Family Tax Credit | All eligible families | Dependent children |
| In-Work Tax Credit | Working families | Minimum work hours (20/30 per week) |
| Best Start | Families with children under 3 | Child born on or after 1 July 2018 |
| Minimum Family Tax Credit | Very low income working families | Minimum work hours |
Receiving payments:
- Choose to receive payments weekly, fortnightly, or as a lump sum at year end
- Payments are based on your estimated income, and IRD will square up at year end
- If your income changes during the year, update your estimate in myIR to avoid overpayments
Use the IRD online calculator at ird.govt.nz to estimate your entitlement before applying.
Sources
Working-for-Familiesapplicationincome-thresholdsabatementeligibility
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Disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes and is not professional tax advice. Tax situations vary. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your circumstances.