Examples primary client paid half couple rate
The following examples show when to pay a half couple rate of benefit to the primary client, when granting the benefit and the partner has not completed their assigned pre-benefit activity.
Couple with dependent child
A married client with one child (aged 10 years) has applied for Jobseeker Support. The client has completed their pre-benefit activity.
The couple live in Auckland and pay rent of $450.00 a week. The partner has not completed their pre-benefit activity.
Jobseeker Support (couple rate) | $669.40 (as at 1 April 2026) |
Accommodation Supplement | $185.00 |
Temporary Additional Support | $169.80 |
Benefit payable | $1024.20 |
Primary client rate ($1024.20 divide by 2) | $512.10 |
family tax credit 1 April 2026 (first and only child - 10 years old) | $151.91 |
Amount payable to primary client | $664.01 |
Couple no children
A married client with no children has applied for Jobseeker Support.
The client has completed their pre-benefit activity. The partner has not completed their pre-benefit activity.
The partner has income of $180.00 gross a week.
Jobseeker Support (couple rate) | $633.94 (as at 1 April 2026) |
Partner's income | $180.00 |
Less abatement threshold | $160.00 |
Income deduction $20.00 x 0.70 | $14.00 |
Benefit rate less deduction for earnings | $619.94 |
Primary client gets ($619.94 divide by 2) | $309.97 |
Legislation
- Regulations may prescribe pre-benefit activities section 184 Social Security Act 2018
- Dictionary schedule 2 Social Security Act 2018
- Non-compliance by applicant's spouse or partner regulation 112 Social Security Regulations 2018
