Under 18s

If you're under 18 years old, you can choose to opt in to KiwiSaver if your provider allows, or your parents can sign you up.

What under 18s are eligible for

On joining, the Government will pay $1,000 into your KiwiSaver account to kick-start your savings.

Until you turn 18 you're not eligible for:

Normal fees charged by KiwiSaver providers will apply.

Making contributions if you're under 18

If you're not working:

You don't have to make KiwiSaver contributions, unless required by your KiwiSaver provider. You or your parents can choose to make voluntary contributions at any time.

If you start working:

  • And you've been in KiwiSaver for less than 12 months, you'll generally have to start contributing 2%, 4% or 8% of your pay like any other KiwiSaver member. Twelve months after you start contributing you'll be able to take a contributions holiday for between 3 months and 5 years.
  • And you've been in KiwiSaver for more than 12 months, you'll have the option of either starting contributions or taking a contributions holiday.

Joining up

You must sign up to KiwiSaver directly with a KiwiSaver provider. Depending on the provider you may be able to sign yourself up, but in most cases you'll need to be enrolled by a parent or legal guardian.

If you are under 18 when you start a new job, you won't be automatically enrolled in KiwiSaver.

Find out more about how to join.