Nearly 22,000 claims have been paid under the FamilyBoost scheme in the first 15 days of January, according to Finance Minister Nicola Willis.
Since the second quarter of FamilyBoost opened for claims on January 1, 21,936 claims have been processed, providing financial relief to low- and middle-income households managing the costs of early childhood education.
Willis said she was happy with the uptake, stating, “I’m delighted people have made claiming FamilyBoost a priority on their New Year to-do list. When it comes to the cost of living, every bit helps, and it’s great to see Kiwi families taking up FamilyBoost.”
As of January 15, the total number of claims for the scheme has reached nearly 65,000, with more than $24 million paid out since its introduction.
The programme is designed to ease the financial burden on families, allowing eligible households earning up to $45,000 per quarter (or $180,000 annually) to claim 25% of weekly childcare costs, up to $975 every three months.
Willis said, “The summer break, spent with friends and family, often reminds us of what matters most, and that’s what FamilyBoost is designed to do – ease the pressure so Kiwis focus on what’s important, and live better lives.”
She encouraged eligible families who have not yet registered to take advantage of the assistance. Registration can be completed through Inland Revenue’s online system, myIR.
FamilyBoost was introduced as part of the Government’s tax relief plan to address the cost of living challenges and assist with early childhood education costs. Check online for eligibility or learn more about the programme on the IRD website.
Image credit: Sigmund
