KiwiSaver has a lot to offer, even if you are self-employed.

It’s a voluntary, transparent, and low-cost way to invest and save money for the future, but CFFC research has shown that although 75% of the full-time employed have a Kiwi Saver, only 40% of self-employed workers have signed up for the scheme. Why? It could be due to the fact that being self-employed you are not automatically enrolled, or that there is less incentive due to the lack of employer contributions.

But with most members building up their savings by making regular small payments, it’s an easy way to save and there are plenty of benefits ready to be snapped up.

So whether you are new to KiwiSaver or unsure how to make the most of it, here are some of the main benefits you should take advantage of.

Government Contribution

The best things in life are free – and that definitely includes free money every year!

 For every dollar you put into your KiwiSaver, the NZ Government matches 50cents – up to a yearly total of $521. To qualify for that maximum amount you just need to ensure a minimum of $1,043 is saved between 1 July and 30 June each year. Luckily, even if you don’t reach this goal, you’ll still get some money. It’s like a reward for being a good saver.

 And KiwiSaver is very flexible for the self-employed. Not receiving PAYE income means you aren’t required to contribute a specific amount. Instead, your savings are entirely voluntary either as regular donations or lump-sum payments. Contributions also don’t need to be regular, as we all know self-employed incomes fluctuate throughout the year.

 So by not contributing to KiwiSaver you could fail to receive thousands of dollars over your lifetime. Don’t miss out.

Retirement

Money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy security and help to maintain your lifestyle. Most people use KiwiSaver to financially prepare for old age and if you are self-employed KiwiSaver offers a flexible option to go alongside your NZ Superannuation.

 Due to no maximum or minimum contribution for self-employed KiwiSavers, you can contribute whatever is most comfortable for you. Maybe set up a retirement savings target for yourself, for example around $50 a week, and pay this through an automatic payment. Your savings can be accessed when you reach the age of 65, at which point you can choose to continue to invest, withdraw regular payments, or even a lump-sum to aid you financially.

First Home

Thinking about getting on the property ladder? The money you save with KiwiSaver could be used to help you buy your first home.

 As long as you have been contributing to KiwiSaver for 3 years and leave a minimum of $1000 in your account, the rest of your savings can be withdrawn to secure the keys to your first house.

 And, depending on if you are buying an existing property or a new-build home, the KiwiSaver HomeStart grant can get you up to $10,000 towards being a homeowner. You may be able to qualify for this even if you have already owned a home before.

Emergency Fund

It’s not just retirees or homebuyers who can access their KiwiSaver – the money you save can also be seen as a rainy-day fund ready for those times when something completely unexpected happens.

You can apply to withdraw your funds early from KiwiSaver if you can prove you need financial help to cover medical costs, funeral costs, bankruptcy, or if you cannot meet your minimum mortgage or living costs. Although not ideal in the long-term, it is always good to have a back-up plan.

 Time to get ahead financially and not miss out on the great benefits KiwiSaver can offer. Contact our friendly team or set up a free Discovery Sessionto discuss how KiwiSaver works, how to join, and to ensure you receive the maximum financial benefits available to you.