NZ Accommodation Supplement Calculator
The Accommodation Supplement helps with rent, board, or mortgage costs for people on low to moderate incomes. This calculator estimates what you might receive based on your location, income, and housing costs, using current MSD entry thresholds and area maxima.
How this calculation works
Step 1: Your accommodation costs must exceed the entry threshold (the minimum you must pay yourself each week — $93 single, $158 couple, $168 sole parent, $205 family, per MSD April 2026 rates). Step 2: The portion above the entry threshold is capped at your area's maximum rate (Area 1–4). Step 3: Income above the threshold is reduced at 30 cents per dollar. Step 4: Cash assets above $8,100 (single/sole parent) or $16,200 (couple/family) reduce the supplement by $1 per $100. This calculator uses conservative income thresholds (~$450–$650/wk depending on household type).
Sources
- Work and Income — Accommodation Supplement: workandincome.govt.nz
- MSD Benefit Rates — 1 April 2026: workandincome.govt.nz/products/benefit-rates/benefit-rates-april-2026.html
- Maximum weekly rates vary by area (Areas 1–4)
When to use this
- — Checking eligibility before applying to MSD
- — Budgeting for rental costs when income changes
- — Understanding how additional savings affect supplement entitlement
Important limitations
- — The actual MSD calculation is more nuanced — this is an estimate only
- — Board situations use different entry thresholds (not covered here)
- — Income taper thresholds are conservative estimates; actual thresholds may be higher
- — Beneficiary income thresholds differ by benefit type — simplified here
- — Does not include Temporary Additional Support or other supplements
Common questions
Can I get Accommodation Supplement if I have a mortgage?
Yes — it covers mortgage repayments (interest and principal) and other housing costs like rates and insurance. The same area maxima apply but with slightly higher entry thresholds for mortgage holders.
How long does it take to get approved?
Applications through Work and Income are typically processed within 5–10 working days. Payment can be backdated to the date of first contact provided you complete the application within 20 working days.
Does KiwiSaver affect Accommodation Supplement?
Your KiwiSaver balance counts as a cash asset. Having significant KiwiSaver savings may reduce or eliminate your supplement through the asset test. Your contributions don't reduce the supplement.
Next step
Turn these numbers into a plan.
FHBG can record your planning context and match you with resources — no obligation, no spam.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-23. Information only — not financial advice. Use these estimates to prepare better questions before speaking with a lender, lawyer, or regulated adviser.