Sole Parent Support
Updated 2026 MSD rates. Sole Parent Support is a weekly payment from Work and Income for sole parents who are the main caregiver of one or more dependent children. It helps you meet living costs while you care for your children.
Who Can Get It
To qualify for Sole Parent Support, you must:
- Be the sole principal caregiver of at least one dependent child aged under 14.
- Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident (usually lived in NZ for at least 2 years).
- Not be living with a partner (or if separated, living apart).
- Meet the income and cash asset thresholds.
- Be aged 18 years or over (16–17 may get Young Parent Payment instead).
Weekly Rates (April 2026)
| Situation | Net Weekly Rate (NZ$) |
|---|---|
| Single, with 1 or more children | $429.75 |
| Plus Accommodation Supplement (max) | Up to $435 depending on area |
Note: You may also qualify for the Accommodation Supplement and Temporary Additional Support on top of Sole Parent Support.
Part-time Work Obligations
Most Sole Parent Support recipients have part-time work obligations once their youngest child turns 3:
- Youngest child aged 3–5: Required to be available for part-time work (at least 20 hours per week).
- Youngest child aged 6–13: Required to be available for part-time work (at least 20 hours per week, may increase).
- Youngest child under 3: No work obligations (but you can volunteer to do part-time work if you wish).
Work and Income can help with childcare costs through the Childcare Subsidy.
How to Apply
- Log in or create a MyMSD account.
- Complete the Sole Parent Support application online.
- Provide proof of your child's details (birth certificate, IRD number).
- You will be contacted for an interview (usually over the phone).
- A case manager will discuss your obligations and any extra help you may qualify for.
Abatement
You can earn up to $160 per week (before tax) before your benefit is affected. After that, your benefit reduces by 30 cents for every $1 earned (after tax) — a much gentler abatement rate than Jobseeker Support.
Duration
Sole Parent Support is available until your youngest child turns 14. After that, you may move to Jobseeker Support or another benefit if you meet the criteria.