Children and young people have what they need
From 1 April 2020, the amount that people on a main benefit can earn through employment before their benefit is reduced (known as abatement) has been increased, in line with planned increases in the minimum wage. This will enable part-time working beneficiaries, including sole parents, to keep a greater proportion of their private earnings. It will also benefit some low-income working families (who become eligible for more support through the Accommodation Supplement or the Minimum Family Tax Credit).
From 1 April 2021, the abatement threshold increased for Job Support, NZ Superannuation/Veteran’s Pension with non-qualifying partner, and the Supported Living Payment/Sole Parents Support/Veteran’s Pension (under 65).
Consideration of future indexation of abatement thresholds will continue.