Work out your tax code

When you apply for NZ Super, you need to tell Work and Income your tax code.

Your tax code depends on whether:

• NZ Super is your main or secondary income
• you have a student loan
• you need a tax code that fits your personal situation (called a tailored tax code).

If NZ Super is your main or secondary income

Your main income is the source that pays you the most. All other sources of income are secondary.

• NZ Super is your main income when it’s your only or highest source of income.
• NZ Super is your secondary income when other sources of income pay you more. For example, you’re still working and earn more from wages or salary.

Work out the right tax code for you with the tool on Inland Revenue website.

What tax code should I use? - Inland Revenue

Tailored tax code

You might need a tailored tax code if your circumstances mean you often pay too much or not enough tax. For example, you’re:

• getting NZ Super and earning income from other sources
• receiving an overseas pension that’s taxable in NZ.

Tailored tax options — Inland Revenue

Change your tax code

You can change your tax code if you’ve chosen the wrong one or your circumstances change.

Change your tax code for NZ Super — Work and Income

If you have investments or savings

You also need to make sure that money you get from investments or interest is taxed at the correct rate.

Tax on investments and savings