Winter Energy Payment
Updated 2026 MSD rates. The Winter Energy Payment is an extra tax-free payment to help with heating costs during the colder months. It is paid automatically to people receiving a main benefit or NZ Superannuation/Veterans Pension — you do not need to apply.
Payment Period
The Winter Energy Payment is paid each week from 1 June to 30 September (17 weeks, covering all of winter). For 2026, payments run from 1 June to 29 September (inclusive).
Weekly Rates (2026)
| Situation | Weekly Rate (NZ$) | Total for Winter (17 weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Single person, living alone | $31.82 | $540.94 |
| Single person, living with others (in a shared flat or family) | $25.45 | $432.65 |
| Couple (both eligible) | $50.91 (total for couple) | $865.47 |
| Couple with dependent children | $50.91 (total for couple) | $865.47 |
Note: If you are single and living alone, you get the higher rate. If you share accommodation, you get the lower rate.
Who Gets It Automatically
- Jobseeker Support recipients.
- Sole Parent Support recipients.
- Supported Living Payment recipients.
- NZ Superannuation and Veterans Pension recipients.
- Orphan's Benefit / Unsupported Child's Benefit recipients.
- Youth Payment / Young Parent Payment recipients.
Who Does Not Get It
- Student Allowance recipients (unless also receiving a main benefit).
- Working for Families recipients who are not on a main benefit.
- People receiving only the Accommodation Supplement or Temporary Additional Support (no main benefit).
- People living in contracted residential care facilities (e.g., rest homes, hospitals).
How You Receive It
The payment is made automatically with your regular benefit or NZ Super payment. You do not need to apply. If you are eligible, you will see it as a separate line item in your MyMSD payment schedule. It is not taxable and does not affect your other entitlements.
If You Are in a Boarding House or Care
If you live in a boarding house or residential care facility where your heating costs are included in your accommodation fees, you may receive a lower rate or no payment. Check with Work and Income if you are unsure.