Tailored recommendations whether you are just joining KiwiSaver or an existing member looking for the best returns.
| Objective: | KiwiSaver is a savings and investment initiative designed to help create a sustainable retirement plan. |
| For Who: | All New Zealand residents of any age are eligible for KiwiSaver sign up, regardless if they work or not. |
| Contributions: | Employee: 3%, 4%, 6%, 8%, or 10% of salary. Employer: Minimum 3% of salary. Government: 50 cents on every dollar up to $521.43/yearly. |
| Objective: | KiwiSaver is a savings and investment initiative designed to help create a sustainable retirement plan. |
| For Who: | All New Zealand residents of any age are eligible for KiwiSaver sign up, regardless if they work or not. |
| Contributions: | Employee: 3%, 4%, 6%, 8%, or 10% of salary. Employer: Minimum 3% of salary. Government: 50 cents on every dollar up to $521.43/yearly. |
| Objective: | KiwiSaver is a savings and investment initiative designed to help create a sustainable retirement plan. |
| For Who: | All New Zealand residents of any age are eligible for KiwiSaver sign up, regardless if they work or not. |
| Contributions: | Employee: 3%, 4%, 6%, 8%, or 10% of salary. Employer: Minimum 3% of salary. Government: 50 cents on every dollar up to $521.43/yearly. |
National Capital is specialised in investment research. We have a list of all the KiwiSaver companies on this page. There are different considerations when choosing KiwiSaver for someone planning to use their savings for retirement as compared to someone who is looking to use them for a First Home purchase. If you are planning to use them for retirement, you need to take into consideration your retirement income goals, the lump sum you need at retirement, and your current balance and rate of savings. You will also need to take into consideration your capacity and tolerance for volatility.
We have tried to answer the question of “How does this KiwiSaver choice compare to others?”. Click on the name of your current KiwiSaver company at the bottom of this page to see how it compares against others in the market and get an indication if it is the appropriate one for you.
However, please note that the information on the pages linked from here is not personalised financial advice for KiwiSaver sign up. If you want advice based on your own circumstances and goals, follow the HealthCheck application on our website. National Capital was founded in 2018 and now advises Kiwis on over $70 million of their KiwiSaver savings. We are based in Auckland, but serve clients all over New Zealand. We provide free advice, with the goal of empowering one million kiwis to become financially secure.
Whether you’re thinking of joining KiwiSaver for the first time, in KiwiSaver self employed, or already in a company recommended, here are some quick links to the most common queries:
The latest analysis on the top-performing KiwiSaver funds.
Find out how to log in and check your balance online. Accessing KiwiSaver account in a few clicks.
A complete breakdown of of all things ‘First Home Buyer’.
Calculate how much tax you’ll pay on your investment.
A list of KiwiSaver Providers and how to find out which one you were automatically registered to.
You’ll be surprised how easy the process is.
And why should I listen to their advice?
We are a financial advice company specialised in KiwiSaver research. And guess what? We provide FREE advice with the goal of empowering Kiwis to take ownership of their financial security and freedom. We currently have a KiwiSaver list of 14 providers which we work with and recommend based on your circumstances.
1. HealthCheck / 2. Personalised Recommendations / 3. Decision
A combination of professional financial advisers and the latest technology deliver tailored recommendations, at no cost to you! Follow our 3 simple steps.
It should take you only 10 to 15 minutes to complete the Healthcheck. This gives us what we need to compare your current situation with opportunities to maximise your investment.
Our thorough analysis delivers tailored recommendations suited for you. Based on your goals, you will get recommendations on the most appropriate fund and overall KiwiSaver option.
Our services allow you to make an informed decision amongst all the KiwiSaver options available. You can ask questions, decide to proceed with our recommendations, or stick to your current situation.
Should you wish to apply our recommendations, National Capital makes the switch a completely hassle-free experience.
Simply put, KiwiSaver is a voluntary investment and savings scheme. It was set up by the New Zealand government to help Kiwis save for buying their first home or retirement. Its features include a nationwide auto-enrolment through KiwiSaver sign up when getting a first job. Employees are automatically enlisted into KiwiSaver sign up but have the choice to opt out if they don’t want to participate. A percentage of your salary is deposited, as well as a contribution from your employer. By choosing to stay in a KiwiSaver plan, your employers are obligated to contribute a minimum of 3% of your salary too. The contributions you make range from 3, 4, 6, 8, or 10% and it is 100% your choice. The government also offers capped annual contributions. Joining KiwiSaver prior to 2015 meant that the government deposited a $1000 lump sum. Although they no longer offer this, the government will contribute 50 cents to every dollar you deposit. This government contribution is capped at a maximum of $521.43 per year.
When joining KiwiSaver, you’re able to choose your preferred KiwiSaver company and fund type. If you’re not sure, you’ll automatically be enlisted in a default scheme but you can always change later. Many people come to National Capital long after KiwiSaver sign up to check if they’re in the right scheme.
Your KiwiSaver investment can be accessed for retirement, your first home deposit, or other uncommon circumstances. It is predominantly seen as a long-term investment to ensure a comfortable lifestyle beyond retirement. In the event that you are emigrating out of New Zealand, you may be eligible to withdraw your savings. However, strict guidelines and criteria are in place to minimise cases of early withdrawals.
KiwiSaver was introduced in 2007, as a way for Kiwis to save enough money towards either their first home or retirement. Before KiwiSaver, Kiwis needed to rely on a weekly $437 NZ superannuation payment once they reached the retirement age of 65, as well as whatever retirement savings they had set aside. Kiwis tend to spend more than what is provided by NZ superannuation as living expenses continue to increase. Thus, KiwiSaver eases financial stresses that may occur in retirement.
More specifically, a trend had come to the government’s attention, duly pointed out by Sir Michael Cullen. New Zealand had some of the lowest savings per household compared to other developed nations. Cullen also pointed out that an estimate was done on the savings rates per household and it was a negative 17.5%. In March 2007, four months before it became active, the NZ Treasury revealed the results of a study. It showed that around 20% of New Zealanders (between 45-64 years old) did not have enough for retirement. During that time, the study revealed that current retirees had their private savings and mortgage-free homes to sustain their retirement. The worry was around those who were younger that had large debt, a mortgage, student loans, and young children. KiwiSaver sign up was a tool introduced to get more low and middle-income households investing for retirement.
Before it was introduced, there were retirement plans available but only around 600,000 people from the workforce were enrolled. In a survey done in 2001, less than 20% of people earning between $15k to $50K were enrolled in a retirement plan. This served as a big concern on which Sir Michael Cullen based his target audience when setting up KiwiSaver.
In August 2006, the law passed, giving it the go-ahead and the driving force behind this was Sir Michael Cullen. He was the Minister of Finance and was the great architect of not only KiwiSaver but of Working for Families. Sir Michael Cullen was born February 5th, 1945 in the town of Whakatane and led a three-decade political career. He served as the deputy prime minister to Helen Clark between 2002-2008 as well as the deputy leader of Labour. He retired in 2009 from Parliament but then went on to be involved in Treaty of Waitangi settlement negotiations. Moreover, chairing New Zealand Post, and the Earthquake Commission.
July 1st, 2007 marked the beginning of KiwiSaver officially. Two years in, just under 100,000 New Zealanders had enrolled by joining KiwiSaver. Major progress has been made since then and most if not all working Kiwis are aware of the scheme. Features like online applications have made the process easy to apply for KiwiSaver self employed, teenagers, and the entire workforce.
Unfortunately, in March 2020, Sir Michael announced that he had lung cancer and died in August 2021 at the age of 76. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern gave a speech in his honour to which she said, “Sir Michael was one of the most influential figures in New Zealand politics over the last 40 years. Intelligent, funny, and kind, he left a significant legacy for the country.”
Most certainly, he is remembered for leading the way forward to the establishment of KiwiSaver among many achievements. Whether joining KiwiSaver self employed or through a company, Sir Michael Cullen wanted all Kiwis to be more financially secure. As of June 2021, more than 3 million people are active members. An important milestone to be proud of.
KiwiSaver sign up is intended to help you save for your future. It is for those looking for a simple way of investing their money that is actively managed by the KiwiSaver managers. Ultimately, setting New Zealanders up with enough savings to live comfortably once retired. It was created to fix the issue of many pensioners living in poverty. You may know that joining KiwiSaver can help you save for either your first home or for retirement. The best way to find out which KiwiSaver is best for you is by talking with your financial advisor or contacting us at National Capital here. It doesn’t matter if you are joining KiwiSaver self employed or working for a company, we can help.
As per IRD, anyone who lives in NZ can join if they are an NZ or Australian citizen or resident. On the other hand, you cannot participate if you hold a temporary, student, or visitor visa. Furthermore, if you’re a citizen but just visiting NZ or are on holiday, you cannot join KiwiSaver.
For those under the age of 18, there are some rules around your KiwiSaver sign up and participation. Firstly, you can only join through a scheme provider and not through your employer. There are around 30 different KiwiSaver providers. For those who are 16 or 17 years old, they must have at least one legal guardian to sign their application. If not, they can contact the scheme provider about joining KiwiSaver. Anyone under the age of 16 must have all legal guardians sign the application as they cannot self-enroll without it. To find out if you are eligible for joining Kiwisaver, visit IRD’s website and take the eligibility quiz.
After meeting the set criteria, you can join KiwiSaver self employed or if you work for a company.
KiwiSaver is a smart financial choice that’s available to anyone, regardless of their age or stage in life. It doesn’t matter if you’re joining KiwiSaver self employed with little starting income or in a salary role. It’s never too late for KiwiSaver sign up, which is one of the great things about this program. KiwiSaver is designed to be inclusive and flexible so everyone can benefit from it. Regardless where you are in your career, joining KiwiSaver self employed or otherwise can help you save for the future. So whether you’re starting in your career, in the middle of it, or nearing retirement, KiwiSaver is great to consider.
People of all ages can start saving for their financial future through KiwiSaver, a program that offers plenty of benefits. Some benefits include employer contributions, government incentives, and different options available. You can customise your approach to achieve your goals and secure your financial well-being. It’s important to understand that KiwiSaver sign up is great for anyone looking to take control of their financial future.
Of course, the earlier you join, the more time your savings have to grow. Nonetheless, KiwiSaver sign up is beneficial even when nearing retirement age. It offers a well-regulated and robust system to get you in the habit of saving for the future. Although nothing is guaranteed, investing through KiwiSaver comes with a track record of growth in the medium to long term. There are also options that offer stability for short-term investors.
If you’re uncertain about whether KiwiSaver sign up is right for you, speak to an advisor. Any specific questions about eligibility, contributions, or fund choices, you can also contact a provider directly. They can provide personalised guidance based on your unique circumstances.
Joining KiwiSaver is relatively simple. When you start a job, you are typically instructed to fill out a KiwiSaver sign up form. According to IRD, your employer may present you with one of two forms, the IR346K form or a KS2 form.
The IR346K form is for KiwiSaver sign up for a new employee who is eligible but has not enrolled yet. This form is typically completed during the onboarding process and is a way of automatically enrolling into KiwiSaver. The information required of the employee includes:
For new employees that are already enrolled, you must fill out the KS2 form. It’s intended to determine the percentage deduction rate that the employee prefers and check whether they have a savings suspension.
If you have KiwiSaver self employed, you can get these forms online through the IRD website or your myIR login.
You can also join KiwiSaver directly from your preferred provider’s website. The process of joining KiwiSaver this way has been made hassle free in recent years. You simply need your IRD number and tax code on hand in addition to some contact information and you’re set.
Regardless of whether you’re joining KiwiSaver through an employer or have signed up for KiwiSaver self employed, one thing remains. You must choose between funds that best align with your short, medium, and long-term goals. While the process has become simple to do online, making the right decision should be thought out. If you need some free professional KiwiSaver advice, National Capital is here to help you make the right choice.
In truth, all KiwiSaver firms are held to a high standard by financial regulators. For many Kiwis when joining KiwiSaver or a few years in, there is very little difference in results. The same goes for joining KiwiSaver self employed or with a company, they all accommodate new customers similarly. Of course, we can recommend the best option for you from KiwiSaver sign up at a young age. However, you will start seeing a significant difference in results when your balance is relatively high.
For example, when your total savings balance is $10,000, an additional 1% in yearly returns equals $100. This is a figure you’d expect in the early years after KiwiSaver sign up. Everyone would take an extra $100 every year if offered, of course. However, it is not significant enough to worry too much about.
Now, let’s assume you’re in your 50’s and have accrued a balance of $500,000 in your KiwiSaver. That additional 1% in yearly returns equals $5000 of potential returns. In this case, KiwiSaver sign up with the best scheme can end up generating a significant amount of additional returns.
Before KiwiSaver sign up, this is a valid question to ask. The only money which is taxed is the earnings gained from your KiwiSaver returns each year. This means that you aren’t paying out of pocket for the returns, and is taken off the amount made within the year from the account. Any money that is withdrawn from your account is tax-free.
KiwiSaver is taxed like any other investment fund type here in NZ. When joining KiwiSaver you will determine your Prescribed Investor Rate (PIR) to determine your tax rate. As a New Zealand resident, you will typically fall into one of the following:
The good thing is that once you set your PIR, whether you joined KiwiSaver self employed or through a company, you don’t need to manually do your taxes on it. Any payable tax is automatically taken from your KiwiSaver balance depending on your investment returns.
Depending on your provider, your KiwiSaver fees may vary. This includes annual management fees and fixed quarterly payments. Fees are based on your savings amount, and the services your fund provides. It is in your best interest to compare the fees with the returns when comparing funds. Although you may receive higher returns, they may be outweighed by the fees charged. Check with your provider to see what you’re paying if you aren’t sure. You can also contact National Capital to help track down these figures for you.
Over the past few years, fees have decreased with a push from various government actions. However, it is understandable for a KiwiSaver firm to charge a management fee in order to provide the service. After all, it is a business with expenses and profit expectations. In order to hire the best financial analysts and investors to manage our funds, they need to pay good salaries.
Importantly, during KiwiSaver sign up, you should not mistake higher fees for better performance and vice versa. There isn’t a clear correlation between KiwiSaver fees and performance, thus you need to look at other factors when selecting. Lastly, there is no difference in fees whether you are joining KiwiSaver self employed or through an employer.
No, KiwiSaver, much like other investments is not guaranteed to give specific returns. However, we can look at long-term averages to get an indication of the range of expected returns from different types of funds. Of course, KiwiSaver performance data will fluctuate over time.
These are the average KiwiSaver returns per annum for the last decade for the major funds:
Whether joining KiwiSaver self employed or in a company, you shouldn’t neglect the fact that investments can go negative. However, history will tell us that long-term investment has an upward trend.
You may ask if that’s the case then when should I worry? You can start taking action if you see your KiwiSaver underperforming competitors on a consistent basis. That may be confusing to keep track of and that’s where National Capital comes in. Whether you’re in KiwiSaver self employed or have been put into a company default provider, we can help.
KiwiSaver sign up, like any other investment, is not insulated from market volatility. This means that your money can go up or down in value. Therefore, the short answer is yes. You can lose money on KiwiSaver. When joining KiwiSaver, this is important to know so that you can make the right decisions when your balance is in the red.
However, it is not as doom and gloom as it sounds. Companies in the main global markets, in general, go up and down in value all the time. Reasons can vary from news articles to bad ad campaigns, and global pandemics like Covid-19. No matter how tech-savvy the financial industry gets, it is impossible to predict and guarantee investments as totally risk-free. KiwiSaver firms work full time in researching market trends and analyse companies to ensure they have a sustainable business model.
Additionally, professionals working in a KiwiSaver company invest your money in a way designed to spread the risk. Whether this is across different companies, industries, or markets. For example, looking closely at the breakdown of your fund, you will see many companies across multiple industries. KiwiSaver firms structure your investment this way particularly to spread risk and minimise the impact of unforeseen downwards trends.
Source: Google Finance
In conclusion, as company valuations are susceptible to downgrades, you can lose money on the scheme. However, history tells us that investing in stable markets, KiwiSaver has grown in value in the long term. Let’s take a look at the NZX50 Market Index from inception in 2003 to the end of 2021. We can see dips and drastic loses along the way but the value over those 18 years has increased 585%. This leads us to the ultimate point in this topic. Timing is everything.
Are you ready to find the best KiwiSaver option for you?
All in one breakdown of everything KiwiSaver related. From KiwiSaver sign up, to different investment funds, KiwiSaver self employed, and more.
Only New Zealand citizens or residents entitled to live in New Zealand indefinitely have the possibility of joining KiwiSaver. If you are only residing temporarily, a visitor, or on a work or student visa, you can’t participate in KiwiSaver. If these conditions do not apply, you may be able to proceed with KiwiSaver sign up.
This is because KiwiSaver is intended for people with a long-term and post-retirement future in NZ. Naturally, someone who’s residing in New Zealand temporarily won’t truly benefit from a long-term savings scheme.
Although you must be a resident or NZ citizen to be eligible for KiwiSaver, there are alternative options. Milford is a KiwiSaver firm that also offers investment funds other than KiwiSaver. These investment funds generally run parallel to KiwiSaver and have a similar return record. Therefore, as a non-resident or citizen, you have the option to invest in funds similar to joining KiwiSaver. The difference is that you can withdraw your investment from these funds at any time, unlike KiwiSaver. Fixed-term deposits are another way utilise your existing savings and generate returns. They typically offer lower returns than joining KiwiSaver or investment funds but are seen as a less risky option.
Before joining KiwiSaver, you should consider the possibility of applying for New Zealand residency if eligible. Once you receive NZ residency, you can then apply for KiwiSaver sign up. If that is not possible, remember that you do have other alternatives to KiwiSaver sign up out there. It is simply advised to do your research beforehand and get tailored financial advice.
Joining KiwiSaver is a long-term investment and savings plan. Therefore, setting up KiwiSaver young is a great idea. You do not need to be working in order to register. However, there are certain pathways you must follow.
If you are under 18 or joining KiwiSaver before starting work, you’ll need to join directly through a scheme provider. You cannot opt-in through your employer. Those under the age of 16 must have the consent of all their legal guardians to apply. You cannot enroll yourself. It is also worth noting that government and employer KiwiSaver contributions are only eligible to those 18 and over.
Those between the ages of 16 and 17 need at least one guardian to co-sign their KiwiSaver sign up application. If you don’t have a legal guardian, contact your chosen KiwiSaver firm for help.
KiwiSaver sign up is a financial decision after all, and these rules are in place to protect young Kiwis. Nonetheless, it is never too early to start thinking about long-term savings. The earlier you start, the more likely you are to reap the benefits of KiwiSaver post-retirement. While that may seem like a lifetime away, joining KiwiSaver is also a great way to build a saving habit. Most certainly, a financial tool you will need throughout your life.
Yes, you can join KiwiSaver self employed. Much like someone under 18 or not working, you can go through KiwiSaver sign up directly via a scheme provider. Joining KiwiSaver self employed means that you may pay contributions directly to the provider or through IRD. If you are enrolled in KiwiSaver self-employed and choose to pay via IRD you can do so via internet banking. Simply set up an automatic payment by using the “Pay Tax” option and selecting “KiwiSaver” through your internet banking provider.
You can join at any time by completing a KiwiSaver sign up form from your chosen provider. Furthermore, you can change your contribution rate at any time by contacting your provider.
You won’t get employer contributions investing in KiwiSaver self employed, as compared to when working for a company. However, you may still qualify for the annual government contribution. This includes a minimum yearly contribution of $1042.86 by you to get the maximum government contribution (currently $521.43). If you don’t make regular payments through KiwiSaver self-employed, remember to make this lump sum payment before 30 June. You should allow for a few days of processing time before the cut-off date.
Joining KiwiSaver self employed means you can choose a contribution rate that suits your situation and set payment intervals accordingly. You can set up an automatic payment through to your KiwiSaver.
Joining KiwiSaver self employed or within a company is voluntary. That means that you can decide whether or not you want to be a part of it. While the decision rests with you, KiwiSaver sign up figures continue to rise year on year. That is because the benefits of KiwiSaver sign up far outweigh any negatives.
If you don’t want to join, when you are employed for the first time and your employer gives you the KS2 form, do not fill it in. If you are currently with KiwiSaver and want to opt-out, you can use Inland Revenue’s website to go through the steps required to opt out. You can apply through myIR online as well.
This Requires:
If applicable, you also need your:
If you move overseas (apart from Australia) for more than 12 months, you can apply to withdraw your funds after you’ve emigrated. If you have migrated overseas to a country other than Australia for at least a year, you can do two things.
You can choose to:
If you are not planning to move permanently overseas or are moving within New Zealand or Australia, you do not need to worry about transferring to another scheme. If you plan to permanently move to Australia, you can transfer your account to the Australian superannuation scheme. But if you want to, you can remain in the scheme indefinitely.
After you have been overseas for over a year, you can apply to withdraw most funds from your KiwiSaver. Things like your savings, employee contributions, and interest earned can all be withdrawn. However, government contributions towards your KiwiSaver cannot.
If you don’t want to make a definite decision, keeping your balance within NZ can be a great option. Your savings are invested and your selected KiwiSaver option works to generate annual returns. If you ever decide on returning to NZ, you won’t have to worry about KiwiSaver sign up once again.
Outside of your and your employer’s regular contributions, you can make additional voluntary contributions towards your KiwiSaver at any time. However, once you have made the payment, it is locked in until you’re eligible to withdraw your KiwiSaver savings.
Remember, irrespective of joining KiwiSaver self employed or through an employer, its fundamental purpose is to stimulate good savings habits. Therefore, of course, you can put extra money into your KiwiSaver to be in a better financial position post-retirement.
With technological advances happening quicker than ever before, it’s becoming easier and easier to make additional contributions at your convenience.
Most providers will also have instructions and alternative solutions through their online portals. These are features you can check when joining KiwiSaver and at any time thereafter after registering for an account.
All providers are required to release quarterly and annual reports on how their KiwiSaver schemes perform. The reports give details, including returns, investment mix, fees, and their top investments. Providers release these on their websites, or you can compare them with the Best Performing KiwiSaver Schemes here.
In addition, most KiwiSaver companies now have their own portal system you can register for and receive up-to-date performance information. Right from KiwiSaver sign up, you should get an online account and keep track of your returns periodically. As this is a long-term investment, we do not advise checking every day, but once a month is reasonable. Comparing your provider’s performance to the industry leaders may also motivate you to seek out better results. National Capital can help pinpoint the right KiwiSaver for you if that is the case.
It’s not unusual to feel uncomfortable with your current KiwiSaver strategy and doubt if it’s the best for your savings. There are plenty to choose from, and some KiwiSaver companies that may align more with your views. By having a sit down with your financial advisor, they can have a look at which KiwiSaver best fits your expectations and values. It is important to remember that by changing funds and or panic switching, you may lose some returns. You can change your KiwiSaver at any time, but you can only belong to one at a time.
When joining KiwiSaver, you may have different reasons than someone else for picking one company over another. While some people only focus on the investment returns, others choose one that aligns with their religious or social values. Moreover, you can also choose one provider because it is easier to manage KiwiSaver self employed with them for example. User experience and customer service play a key role in many people’s choices during and after KiwiSaver sign up.
As mentioned prior, National Capital’s HealthCheck alerts you to see if your current provider is best for you, and recommends KiwiSaver choices that fit your needs.
Remember, it is designed to be a long-term investment, with the current age being 65 to withdraw for retirement. But there are some ways to withdraw from your KiwiSaver earlier on.
This includes:
During KiwiSaver sign up, consider your savings locked and only eligible for withdrawal for a first-house deposit or retirement. This is done to encourage you to get into a saving habit and start thinking about your retirement plan. Of course, things can happen along the way that you didn’t plan for during KiwiSaver sign up. Unforeseeable illnesses, financial hardship, or even emigration have been identified as reasonable cases to withdraw from KiwiSaver early.
Financial hardships are situations that can, unfortunately, arise throughout everybody’s life. Since introducing KiwiSaver, the IRD and providers have recognised that sometimes you need your savings earlier than expected.
The inland revenue department defines someone going through financial hardships as below:
If you are currently in a situation connected to one or more of these, you are eligible for withdrawal. For example, you’re in the first year of starting a new business and are currently enrolled in KiwiSaver self employed. The business is not generating income as quickly as you had thought and find yourself in significant financial hardship.
If you qualify as per the definitions, you need to contact your KiwiSaver firm to complete a form to withdraw. Thereafter, your provider will generally ask for supporting documentation to approve the withdrawal which can take a few weeks.
Keep in mind that once you find yourself back on your feet, you can register with a KiwiSaver company again. It is never too late to invest in yourself and your retirement plan.
There are plenty of options for choosing your preferred retirement savings fund, whether that be actively investing or saving cash in the bank. KiwiSaver is just one of many methods, although it’s the preferred way for most New Zealanders. The system allows you to easily save money throughout your working life and have it all ready by the time you retire.
However, it’s up to you: there is no limitation on the number of investments you can have when you retire. We recommend seeing a financial adviser if you’re organising your own investment accounts, as they can share expert advice on managing your money.
The benefits of KiwiSaver sign up far outweigh any disadvantages, however, it is still important to be aware of them. Especially when first joining KiwiSaver, these shouldn’t come as a surprise.
KiwiSaver is generally considered a non-liquid asset. A liquid asset is one that can be quickly and easily turned into cash. As an example, money in your bank account is very liquid as it can be withdrawn at any time. On the other hand, a house is considered a non-liquid asset. A house takes time on the market and a bigger effort to turn into cash. You can withdraw your savings under only a few circumstances. Such as when you are over the age of 65 and it’s been at least 5 years since joining KiwiSaver. Alternatively, you can apply for withdrawal when purchasing your first home or in rare circumstances in extreme financial situations.
For many New Zealanders, it is the only investment ‘basket’ they put their hard-earned savings into. When it comes to financial freedom and investment, KiwiSaver sign up should not be your only move. KiwiSaver is a great initiative as the minimum step towards financial freedom into your retirement. But, you should also be looking at diversifying with different investments. Have you done any research into property investment? Is there a business with a strong outlook but in need of cash, which you can invest in? Are there other high-performing mutual funds to invest in? Ultimately, if you are investing more than 3% of your wages, you should be asking yourself why.
KiwiSaver sign up should be a no-brainer. It can play a big role in important stages of your life. But, KiwiSaver isn’t the ONLY tool for financial freedom.
If you’re planning to move permanently out of NZ, it’s fair to ask what will happen with your KiwiSaver. Well, there are two answers depending on where you emigrate to. Different rules apply when you are moving permanently to Australia compared to the rest of the world.
If you move to Australia permanently, you can request to transfer from your KiwiSaver to an Australian superannuation scheme. Simply reach out to your KiwiSaver provider and they will guide you through the process. Your selected Australian superannuation scheme must be regulated by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). In addition, they must also be willing to accept the transfer from KiwiSaver. All contributions and the interest you’ve earned since joining KiwiSaver are eligible for the transfer into an Australian superannuation scheme. You can also leave your savings with your current scheme provider. However, you can’t request an early withdrawal when moving to Australia.
If you move to any other country permanently, you can request an early withdrawal. You can withdraw your, and employer contributions, interest earned, and any fee subsidies or $1000 kickstart since KiwiSaver sign up. However, you cannot withdraw any government contributions since joining KiwiSaver. You can normally withdraw your KiwiSaver balance balance after living overseas for 1 year (not including Australia). If the foreign country has an approved superannuation scheme, you can apply for a transfer. The foreign scheme must comply with regulations as per the KiwiSaver Act 2006 (section 228).
If you move overseas short-term or plan to eventually return to NZ, you can leave your KiwiSaver open. While you aren’t employed in New Zealand, you can continue to make contributions.
The short answer is no, you cannot gift your savings to someone else directly. As we’ve mentioned once you’ve gone through the KiwiSaver sign up process, you can only withdraw under certain circumstances. Those are when you reach the age of retirement (65), purchase your first home, or are under financial hardship.
However, you can switch KiwiSaver and funds, and we can help identify the best options available to you. For example, if you’re joining KiwiSaver self employed and after a while, you are employed by someone else, you can change to your employer’s preferred provider. However, your decision should be made based primarily on your circumstances rather than external factors.
KiwiSaver was created to serve as a way for Kiwis to enjoy a comfortable retirement without financial stress. Thus, since setting up KiwiSaver, strict limitations over account transactions were introduced to ensure you’re secure in the long run.
If you want to support someone else by gifting to their KiwiSaver, you can make additional contributions on their behalf. Most providers have a direct deposit option available for additional contributions. You simply need to ask the person you want to gift it to and they should have those details available. Similarly, they also can’t withdraw or transfer their balance to someone else.
Your intention may be to use your savings as your first home deposit. When purchasing a home for the first time with someone else, you can both apply for a withdrawal. That way, you can combine to contribute towards your house deposit.
Once again, from KiwiSaver sign up to your first home purchase or retirement, your goal must be the same. That is to save and invest for a better and stable future.
I’m sure this isn’t a question that comes to mind during KiwiSaver sign up but rather later on in life. It doesn’t matter how much you have saved or whether you’ve enrolled through KiwiSaver self employed or through an employer. However, there are a few things to be taken into consideration.
In the event of your passing, your KiwiSaver savings can indeed be inherited. Contrary to some myths, the government does not automatically claim your KiwiSaver. Nor can you nominate a beneficiary directly within the KiwiSaver system.
From the moment of joining KiwiSaver, it is treated as an asset of your personal estate. With that in mind, it’s crucial to have a valid Will in place. With a Will, you can specify who should inherit your KiwiSaver and other assets. This legal document allows you to name beneficiaries and streamline the administration of your estate. This is done by appointing executors and trustees to carry out your wishes.
If you pass away without a Will and your total assets, including KiwiSaver, are valued at more than $15,000, the assets will be held until Letters of Administration are granted by the court. This can be a lengthy and expensive process for your loved ones to deal with.
Read More: What Happens to my KiwiSaver money if I Die?
Having a Will in place ensures that your KiwiSaver, along with your other assets, is distributed according to your wishes. While estate administration may still involve legal formalities like Probate, it’s generally quicker and more cost-effective when a pre-existing Will. This way, you can help ensure that your assets, including your KiwiSaver, benefit the people you intend to support.
Claiming a deceased KiwiSaver involves navigating a thoughtful and administrative process to ensure a smooth transition of funds. Promptly notifying the KiwiSaver company about the member’s passing is the initial step. This is done by contacting the customer service or bereavement support team, which guides you through the subsequent procedures.
Gathering the required documentation is crucial. Importantly, the information required does not revolve around investment strategies or whether the deceased joined KiwiSaver self employed for example. A death certificate, details of the deceased’s KiwiSaver, and relevant legal documents (Will or grant of probate), should be compiled. The provider will furnish the necessary claim forms, which need to be meticulously filled out by you.
Proof of the relationship to the deceased, especially if you are the executor of the estate, is typically required. This could include being named in the will or having been granted probate. Additionally, bank account details must be submitted, specifying where the funds should be transferred, usually to the deceased’s estate.
Upon completion, a waiting period ensues as the KiwiSaver company reviews the documents and processes the claim. This can be a very stressful and difficult time, dealing with the loss of someone close to you. Unfortunately, these processes can take time, and it’s important to stay patient. Once the claim is approved, the funds will be distributed according to the deceased member’s will. In cases where there is no will, distribution follows the laws of intestacy.
It’s essential to recognise that the specific process might vary slightly across the KiwiSaver industry. Therefore, reaching out directly to the relevant company for precise instructions and forms is advisable. It’s good to know such a procedure even when first joining KiwiSaver. Seeking legal advice or assistance in handling deceased estates can also prove invaluable throughout this intricate process.
According to a study conducted by Victoria University of Wellington, KiwiSaver is the world’s first national auto-enrolment savings scheme. This means that when you get a job, KiwiSaver sign up is part of the onboarding process. In other words, you have to opt out instead of opting into KiwiSaver. Granted, that is not the case joining KiwiSaver self employed, where you make that decision to opt-in.
The only comparable national auto-enrolment savings scheme is the one in the United Kingdom. There is one key difference between KiwiSaver and the UK version, however. In the UK, this personal savings scheme is only a part of a complex personal savings landscape. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, joining KiwiSaver is fast becoming the predominant savings and investment vehicle for retirement planning.
This brings us to the core point of discussion and the answer to this question. There are over 3.2 million Kiwis that are enrolled in KiwiSaver self employed or through an employer. For a significant majority, joining KiwiSaver plays the most important role in their investment and retirement savings strategy. Although a diversified investment portfolio is recommended, the simplicity of KiwiSaver sign up for lifetime saving is better than nothing.
A combination of factors such as lack of financial literacy, and cost of living, can be a barrier to investing. Through KiwiSaver sign up, New Zealand has found an efficient way to involve everyday Kiwis in the global financial system. This isn’t only good for people’s retirement savings but also serves as a tool to improve financial literacy at scale. That is why signing up is highly recommended even if you’re joining KiwiSaver self employed without auto-enrolment.
Financial literacy plays an important role in promoting a healthy financial system and development opportunities. KiwiSaver has played an important in educating and getting regular Kiwis to save and invest for their future. In fact, KiwiSaver was set up exactly because of the lack of forward thinking and poor saving habits in general.
But first, let’s define what financial literacy actually is. It is the ability to make informed decisions when it comes to the use and management of money. A report by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand states the importance of financial literacy on wider economic stability. Individual management of financial affairs affects the behaviour of financial institutions and the allocation of economic resources overall. Thus, directly linked to the long-term growth potential of an economy.
Now back to the impact of KiwiSaver sign up on financial literacy. The first thing people are faced with when joining KiwiSaver is the question of risk appetite. Whether you’ve joined KiwiSaver self employed or through an employer, you must decide on the investment fund type. These funds come with a risk-reward track record to choose from and thus the first lesson in financial literacy. What are my goals and how risk-averse am I as an investor?
Next up is the habit of saving. Upon KiwiSaver sign up, at least 3% of your salary will be automatically deducted and deposited into your KiwiSaver portfolio. In terms of financial literacy, saving is a great way to accumulate funds for a rainy day or investment opportunities.
Of course, KiwiSaver sign up is looked at as a savings scheme. However, it also teaches everyday Kiwis in real terms about returns and losses when it comes to investing. First-hand experience often brings things to perspective and is invaluable in teaching the rewards and potential risks.
When it comes to retirement, it is better to start planning sooner rather than later. Whether you’re investing in KiwiSaver self employed or through a company, the scheme is part of a retirement plan for most Kiwis. How does KiwiSaver sign up differ from your other options in a post-retirement plan though?
Firstly, let’s list the most common financial retirement options beyond KiwiSaver sign up:
NZ Super is the New Zealand pension plan paid out fortnightly to eligible Kiwis past the age of retirement. You can view the latest rates on the Work And Income website. Any eligible New Zealander will receive NZ Super regardless of their financial status and actions. On the other hand, joining KiwiSaver means you will need to make contributions to save for retirement.
You can also save your money in the bank and receive interest on your savings, or explore other investment opportunities. Investing in property, the stock market, or a business, can come with high returns but is also considered risky. In comparison, KiwiSaver offers a track record of better returns than savings or term deposits and less know-how than investing.
To continue supporting a lifestyle you are used to, you may decide to work beyond the age of retirement. What if you need to retire for reasons out of your control? In theory, joining KiwiSaver early in your working career is designed to enable you to maintain your lifestyle beyond retirement.
A reverse mortgage is when you borrow money against your property which you can use for long-term living expenses. Selling your house and buying something smaller but cheaper will also free up money to use in retirement. While KiwiSaver is accessible to all, this only applies to homeowners.
According to the Financial Markets Authority 2021 Annual Report the average person has a balance of $26,410. This figure is up 29% from the previous year.
Meanwhile, the total number of people that have completed the KiwiSaver sign up process and are currently members is 3,090,631. People joining KiwiSaver lifted this figure up by 2.1% from the previous year.
Your balance is a combination of your contributions, your employer and government contributions, and your KiwiSaver performance. When using KiwiSaver self employed, your and employer contributions are one and the same. The three types of contribution (you, employer, and government) collectively make up your overall contributions. Your KiwiSaver company invests contributions in your chosen funds with the goal to yield a positive return on your investment. Thus the purpose of joining KiwiSaver is to incentivise Kiwis to save and invest for the future.
Out of 3,090,631 people registered in KiwiSaver, only 1,883,118 members contributed to their accounts. If they don’t contribute themselves, this means they don’t receive any government or employer contributions either. Thus, are solely reliant on KiwiSaver performance for their balance to increase.
Having been set up in 2007 means it is relatively young compared to other retirement schemes. Therefore the median balance is still relatively low (although growing at a good rate). Consistent contributions and an incremental positive return will undoubtedly lead to growth in the average balance.
Whether considering KiwiSaver self employed or your employer has handed you a KiwiSaver sign up form, you shouldn’t think twice. It’s never too late to start saving for retirement and joining KiwiSaver is a great way to start.
AMA
Always Ethical is a boutique fund management group based in Auckland, New Zealand. They specialise in providing ethical investment solutions to New Zealand and international investors.
AMP
AMP Capital and AMP Wealth Management are part of the AMP Group. They share a heritage that spans almost 170 years. They started back in 1849 as the investment management arm of AMP Group.
ANZ
ANZ is one of the world’s largest banks and their businesses serve more than 5 million customers. ANZ manages six funds under its ANZ KiwiSaver scheme and OneAnswer KiwiSaver Scheme, and has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of more than $NZD 14 billion and 581,054 members.
AON
The Aon KiwiSaver Scheme is a relatively smaller KiwiSaver provider. They offer thirteen KiwiSaver funds, ranging from a lower-risk cash fund to a higher-risk growth fund.
ASB
The ASB Kiwisaver scheme has a total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $10.5 billion and a total number of over 530,000 members.
BNZ
The BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme manages six funds. They have total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 2.7 billion and 178,146 clients.
BOO
Booster Investment Management Limited currently manages 16 funds. They have total Assets Under Management (AUM) in their KiwiSaver scheme of over $1.85 Billion and 154,417 members.
PAT
Pathfinder manages seven funds under their KiwiSaver scheme, varying in levels of risk from the Cash Fund to the Shares Fund. As of March 2022, the total Assets Under Management (AUM) for Pathfinder is over $162 million.
CHR
The Christian KiwiSaver Scheme has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 54 million and 1,941 clients.
CRA
Craigs Investment Partners KiwiSaver has Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 290 million and 5,777 members.
FF
Fisher Funds provides a number of services, including KiwiSaver, managed funds, premium services tailored to wealthy individuals, workplace LifeSaver plans geared towards retirement, and financial advice and they manages seven funds under the KiwiSaver scheme and has an AUM of over NZ $4.16 Billion and 146,952 members.
FFTWO
Fisher Funds Two manages eleven funds under the KiwiSaver scheme and has an AUM of over NZ $2.28 Billion and 103,255 members.
GEN
Generate is a New Zealand owned and operated specialist. The Generate KiwiSaver Scheme manages seven funds and has Total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $1.7 billion and 83, 213 members, as per the annual fund report of March 2020.
JNO
KW
The Kiwi Wealth KiwiSaver Scheme manages six funds and has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 4.4 billion and 216,616 clients.
Kōura
The Manager of the Scheme is Kōura Wealth Limited, a company incorporated in New Zealand under the Companies Act 1993 on 20 February 2019. Kōura manages the investments of, and administers, the Scheme. Kōura is 100% New Zealand owned, we are very proud of our Kiwi heritage.
LS
The Lifestages KiwiSaver Scheme manages eight funds and has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $462 million and 19,200 clients.
MAS
The Medical Assurance Society KiwiSaver Scheme has a total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 769 million and 15,117 clients.
MER
The fund management division of Mercer is ranked 82nd in the world for the total assets under management, with Assets Under Management (AUM) totaling $199.7 billion as of 2019. Mercer manages seven funds under their KiwiSaver scheme, varying in levels of risk from the Cash fund to the Shares fund. As of June 2019, the total AUM for Mercer KiwiSaver scheme was over $2 Billion.
MIL
The Milford Plan manages six funds with over 45,000 members and has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $2,632 million NZD (as of 30th Sep 2020).
NIK
The Nikko AM KiwiSaver Scheme manages six funds and has a total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 7.3 million and 77 clients.
OAK
The OneAnswer Scheme is run by the ANZ bank. Most of its funds are very similar to those in the ANZ KiwiSaver Scheme.
QS
TheQuayStreet KiwiSaver Scheme manages ten funds and has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 187 million and 2,611 clients.
SIM
The Simplicity Kiwisaver scheme has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $980 million and 34,062 members.
SUM
The Summer KiwiSaver Scheme manages nine funds and has total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $NZ 166 million and 4,356 clients.
SUP
The SuperLife Kiwisaver scheme has a total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $890 million and 4,685 members (As at August 2019).
WES
The Westpac KiwiSaver scheme has six investment options, a cash option, and five diversified options. It has a total Assets Under Management (AUM) of over $6.8 Billion.
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