Sole Parent Support in NZ — 2026 Rate & Rules
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?
Sole Parent Support helps single parents (or principal caregivers) with at least one dependent child under 14. It's paid under the Social Security Act 2018 by Work and Income. From 1 April 2026, the net (after-tax) rate is $521.52 a week.
You can work and still receive it: earnings abate at 30 cents per dollar between $160 and $250 a week, then 70 cents per dollar above $250. There are obligations (such as part-time work expectations once your youngest reaches a certain age). You may also get the Accommodation Supplement, Working for Families, and childcare assistance on top. (Rate current at 1 April 2026 — re-verify before relying on it.)
When does it apply?
- You're a single parent or principal caregiver of a child under 14.
- You're not in a relationship in the nature of marriage.
- You're on a low income.
What to do to get Sole Parent Support
- Apply through MyMSD or call 0800 559 009.
- Check your extra entitlements — Accommodation Supplement, Working for Families, childcare help.
- Keep income details updated to get abatement right.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't forget add-on support you may qualify for.
- Don't under-declare a relationship or income — 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 sole parent support right in New Zealand?
Sole Parent Support helps single parents (or principal caregivers) with at least one dependent child under 14. It's paid under the Social Security Act 2018 by Work and Income. From 1 April 2026, the net (after-tax) rate is $521.52 a week.You can work and still receive it: earnings abate at 30 cents per dollar between $160 and $250 a week, then 70 cents per dollar above $250. There are obligations (such as part-time work expectations once your youngest reaches a certain age). You may also get the Accommodation Supplement, Working for Families, and childcare assistance on top. (Rate current at 1...
When does it apply — sole parent support?
You're a single parent or principal caregiver of a child under 14.You're not in a relationship in the nature of marriage.You're on a low income.
Who qualifies for Sole Parent Support in New Zealand?
Apply through MyMSD or call 0800 559 009.Check your extra entitlements — Accommodation Supplement, Working for Families, childcare help.Keep income details updated to get abatement right.
What should you NOT do — sole parent support?
Don't forget add-on support you may qualify for.Don't under-declare a relationship or income — overpayments are recoverable.