NZ Best Start Payment Calculator 2026
Best Start Payment is NZ$73/week for children under 1 (universal) or under 3 (income-tested). Combined with Paid Parental Leave it provides up to NZ$72,000 in family support during the first 3 years.
Best Start Payment Eligibility
Universal payment for children under 12 months — no income test. From 12-35 months, income-tested with abatement at 21c per $1 above $79K family income. Available to NZ residents with care of the child. Apply via myIR or Work and Income.
Stacking With Other Payments
Best Start + Paid Parental Leave + Family Tax Credit + In-Work Tax Credit can total NZ$30,000+ in the first year for low-income working families. The combination is one of OECD's most generous baby benefit packages.
Application And Payment
Apply via myIR (IRD) or Work and Income, typically same time as Paid Parental Leave application. Payment fortnightly direct to bank. Continuous payment up to age 3 unless income changes shift eligibility.
Source: Inland Revenue Department (IRD) NZ Best Start; Ministry of Social Development. Last updated: May 2026.