Most KiwiSaver members deal primarily with their provider — but Inland Revenue (IRD) plays a central role behind the scenes. Understanding what IRD does helps you manage your KiwiSaver more effectively.
IRD’s Role in KiwiSaver
IRD acts as the central clearing house for KiwiSaver. The key functions:
| IRD function | What it does |
|---|---|
| Collecting employer and employee contributions | From employers via payroll/PAYE |
| Allocating contributions to providers | IRD passes funds to your provider regularly |
| Assigning members to default providers | If you don’t choose a provider within the enrolment window |
| Paying the Member Tax Credit (MTC) | Annually, to your provider after the 30 June cutoff |
| Maintaining the central KiwiSaver register | Your membership record, provider, enrolment date |
| Enforcing employer contribution obligations | Chasing non-compliant employers |
| Processing savings suspensions (KS6 forms) | Approving contribution holidays |
How Contributions Flow Through IRD
When your employer deducts KiwiSaver contributions from your pay:
- Contributions go to IRD as part of the PAYE system (not directly to your provider)
- IRD holds and processes the contributions
- IRD forwards contributions to your KiwiSaver provider — typically monthly or more frequently
- Your provider invests the funds into your chosen fund
This means there is typically a lag of a few weeks between contributions being deducted from your pay and them appearing in your KiwiSaver account. This is normal and expected.
The Member Tax Credit — IRD Pays It
The government’s $521.43/year Member Tax Credit is administered and paid by IRD. After 30 June each year, IRD calculates each eligible member’s MTC based on contributions received in the year (1 July–30 June) and pays the MTC directly to the member’s KiwiSaver provider.
You do not need to apply — the process is automatic. MTC payments typically appear in accounts during July–August each year.
Using myIR for KiwiSaver
MyIR (myir.ird.govt.nz) is IRD’s online portal. For KiwiSaver, you can use myIR to:
- Check your KiwiSaver balance and account details
- See which provider you’re with
- Check your enrolment date (important for first home withdrawal eligibility)
- Apply for a savings suspension (KS6 form)
- Change your contribution rate (KS2 form)
- Make voluntary contributions via internet banking references
- View your MTC history
If Your Employer Isn’t Making Contributions
If you believe your employer isn’t making the required 3% KiwiSaver contributions, contact IRD:
- Call IRD on 0800 549 944 (KiwiSaver line)
- Or send a secure message through myIR
- IRD can investigate and compel the employer to make back-payments
This is a relatively common issue — employers who don’t understand the rules or are in financial difficulty. IRD has the authority to enforce employer obligations.
Changing Provider — IRD’s Role
When you switch KiwiSaver providers, the process is managed between your old and new providers. IRD updates the central register to reflect your new provider. During the transfer period (10–15 working days), some contribution payments from your employer may be directed to the old provider and subsequently forwarded to the new one.
IRD and Your PIR
You set your PIR with your KiwiSaver provider (not IRD), but IRD can confirm the rate you have registered. Incorrect PIR rates result in overpaying tax on KiwiSaver returns — review your PIR each year when your income changes.
See how to update your KiwiSaver PIR rate.
Contact IRD About KiwiSaver
| Contact method | Details |
|---|---|
| KiwiSaver phone line | 0800 549 944 |
| myIR secure messaging | myir.ird.govt.nz |
| IRD website | ird.govt.nz/kiwisaver |