A year of change for KiwiSavers — and would-be joiners. We’re in for a mixed year with KiwiSaver. Contributions from the government and employers will decrease. Still, there’s a good reason for employees who haven’t yet joined the scheme to get in now. Meanwhile, some over-65s will become eligible — for the first time — to withdraw money in retirement.
Q&As: Most people still get their money doubled in KiwiSaver, or close to that…; …And no, KiwiSaver is not self-funded by members; What happens in April 2013 to KiwiSavers who pay their own employer contributions; Good and bad employers and KiwiSaver; A little book that says it all — almost.
Q&As: Are employers allowed to take their employer contributions to KiwiSaver out of employees’ pay?; How a KiwiSaver in that situation can stop employer contributions — although it won’t gain her much; Pluses and minuses of the suggested “life stages” KiwiSaver default funds; Professionalism “the kiwi way” can be a winner in the tourism industry; Motel owners don’t tend to do it for long.
Q&As: 2 Q&As suggest it’s not always easy to go into the motel business, or other tourism or hospitality businesses; Should couple stop health insurance and set up their own fund to cover medical expenses?; Is KiwiSaver still worth being in, given changes that make it less attractive?
Q&As: Three readers offer advice to early 60s couple looking for jobs — go and look around the country; check out motels; try a B&B; AMP responds to a KiwiSaver’s concerns about returns; A Christmas message; More letters from readers giving advice to couple seeking work.
Q&As: Is share buying just for the elite?; KiwiSaver first home buyer strikes a hitch — but all is well; 60-ish couple could get into rental property; Did our couple blow too much on holidays?
Q&As: The “who and how” of KiwiSaver withdrawals before retirement — including what happens if you go bankrupt; Was the recent advice on tax for buskers correct, or is their income donations?; Two readers suggest a short-term approach to employment for 60ish couple made redundant; Meaningful Christmas gifts.
Q&As: Help needed for couple in early 60s who can’t find jobs; KiwiSaver member really needs to get her money out — and she should be able to; It’s always better if your KiwiSaver fund grows; Did Voltaire actually say it — and does it matter?
Q&As: Teen busker should be filing a tax return; Reader shows how not to choose a KiwiSaver fund; Voltaire quote last week hit the spot; Researcher reports on surprisingly high chance of ending up in a rest home.
Too many KiwiSaver non-contributors miss out on the good stuff. Not far from half of all members of KiwiSaver are not contributing regularly to the scheme — whether they be employees on a contributions holiday or non-employees who are simply not putting money in. What a pity.