Which tax code should I use as an employee in New Zealand (M, ME, S, SH, ST)?

When you start a new job in New Zealand, you must complete an IR330 Tax Code Declaration form and give it to your employer so they can deduct the correct amount of PAYE tax. The tax code you use depends on your situation:

Primary tax codes (for your main or only job):

• M - Main income, no student loan, no KiwiSaver deductions via employer
• ME - Main income with the Independent Earner Tax Credit (IETC) entitlement
• M SL - Main income with a student loan
• ME SL - Main income with IETC and a student loan

Secondary tax codes (for a second or additional job):

• S - Secondary income, expected total annual income NZ$15,601 to NZ$53,500
• SH - Secondary income, expected total annual income NZ$53,501 to NZ$78,100
• ST - Secondary income, expected total annual income NZ$78,101 to NZ$180,000
• SA - Secondary income, expected total annual income over NZ$180,000

You should only use one primary tax code (M or ME) for your highest-paying job. All other jobs should use the appropriate secondary code based on your total combined annual income.

Important: If you use the wrong tax code, you could end up with a tax bill or refund at the end of the year. If your circumstances change, complete a new IR330 form and give it to your employer promptly.