Claiming UK Child Benefit in New Zealand

When you emigrate to New Zealand, you will no longer be eligible for the UK Child Benefit.

You will need to cancel your child allowance payment before you leave. For more information, see the UK HMRC Child Benefit page.

New Zealand does not operate a universal child benefit payment, but low to middle income families may qualify for tax credits under the Working for Families package, administered by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).

Your entitlement is based on the number of children in your family and how old they are, and your family income. Families with several children and an income of up to $100,000 may be eligible.

Though referred to as tax credits, payments are either made weekly or fortnightly into your bank account, or as a “catch-up” payment at the end of the tax year. It is important to let the IRD know of any changes to your circumstances through the year, as this can change the payments, and you will be required to repay any overpayments.

For more information, see the IRD website. You can even work out an estimate of your entitlement with their Working for Families online calculator if you know how much you will be earning in New Zealand.

It is important for migrant families to note that you cannot claim Working for Families tax credits while you are claiming the four year migrant tax exemption on foreign income – you can however choose to waive the exemption if this is in your best interests. There is information on this (and an example) on the IRD website.

Broadbase International will work with you every step of the way to help you make a confident start to your new life in New Zealand. Please contact us if you have any questions about the financial side of life in New Zealand, and don't forget to order your free copy of our comprehensive New Zealand Guide.