Accommodation Supplement in NZ — 2026 Rates
About this article
Sourced from New Zealand Acts of Parliament (legislation.govt.nz), regulations, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
The Accommodation Supplement is a weekly payment that helps with your housing costs — rent, board, or mortgage payments. Importantly, you don't have to be on a benefit to get it: low-income working households can qualify too. It's paid under the Social Security Act 2018 and tested on your income, assets, accommodation costs, and family situation.
How much you can get depends on the area you live in (the country is split into Areas 1–4, with the highest-cost areas getting more). From 1 April 2026, the maximum for a single person ranges from about $165/week (Area 1) down to $70/week (Area 4); higher maximums apply for sole parents and couples with children. There's an entry threshold — your housing costs must exceed a set portion of your income before the supplement starts. (Figures current at 1 April 2026 — re-verify before relying on them.)
When does it apply?
- You pay rent, board or a mortgage and have a low income.
- Your housing costs are high relative to your income.
- You're working or on a benefit — either can qualify.
What to do to get the Accommodation Supplement
- Use the Work and Income online estimator to check eligibility and amount.
- Apply through MyMSD with proof of your accommodation costs.
- Tell MSD if your rent or income changes so the amount stays correct.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't assume you must be on a benefit — working households can qualify.
- Don't forget to update changes — overpayments are recoverable.
About Benefits & Welfare in New Zealand
New Zealand's income-support system is run by Work and Income (part of the Ministry of Social Development, MSD) under the Social Security Act 2018. The main payments are Jobseeker Support, Sole Parent Support, the Supported Living Payment, and the Accommodation Supplement for housing costs. Rates are adjusted every 1 April. If MSD makes a decision you disagree with, you can ask for a review (Benefits Review Committee) and then appeal to the independent Social Security Appeal Authority.
Rates current as at 1 April 2026 — re-verify on workandincome.govt.nz. Work and Income: 0800 559 009.
Common Questions
What is the accommodation supplement right in New Zealand?
The Accommodation Supplement is a weekly payment that helps with your housing costs — rent, board, or mortgage payments. Importantly, you don't have to be on a benefit to get it: low-income working households can qualify too. It's paid under the Social Security Act 2018 and tested on your income, assets, accommodation costs, and family situation.How much you can get depends on the area you live in (the country is split into Areas 1–4, with the highest-cost areas getting more). From 1 April 2026, the maximum for a single person ranges from about $165/week (Area 1) down to $70/week (Area 4); hig...
When does it apply — accommodation supplement?
You pay rent, board or a mortgage and have a low income.Your housing costs are high relative to your income.You're working or on a benefit — either can qualify.
Who can get the Accommodation Supplement in New Zealand?
Use the Work and Income online estimator to check eligibility and amount.Apply through MyMSD with proof of your accommodation costs.Tell MSD if your rent or income changes so the amount stays correct.
What should you NOT do — accommodation supplement?
Don't assume you must be on a benefit — working households can qualify.Don't forget to update changes — overpayments are recoverable.