What is a KiwiSaver PIR?
Your PIR, or prescribed investor rate, is the tax rate applied to the earnings inside your KiwiSaver fund. There are three PIRs: 10.5%, 17.5% and 28%. The rate that applies to you depends on your income over the past two years. Using the wrong one is common and can cost you money.
Why the right PIR matters
If your PIR is too high, you pay more tax on your KiwiSaver earnings than you need to. If it is too low, you can end up with a tax bill at the end of the year. Either way, the wrong rate quietly eats into your balance, which is why it sits alongside fees as a cost worth controlling.
How to find your PIR
Your PIR is based on your total income, including PIE income, over the last two years. Inland Revenue publishes the income tests, and you can check or update your rate with your provider. Use the PIR Calculator to work out which of the three rates applies to you.
Keeping more of what you earn
Tax and fees are the two costs you can control. For the fees side, read KiwiSaver fees explained, and check your contribution rate.
Compare KiwiSaver funds and fees on Kāhu.
Frequently asked questions
What are the KiwiSaver PIR rates?
There are three: 10.5%, 17.5% and 28%. The one that applies depends on your income over the past two years.
What happens if my PIR is wrong?
Too high and you overpay tax on your earnings; too low and you may face a tax bill.
Where do I update my PIR?
With your KiwiSaver provider. Confirm the correct rate first using the PIR Calculator or Inland Revenue’s income tests.
Kāhu provides general information, not personalised financial advice. Kāhu is a KiwiSaver comparison and switching platform operated by Financial Advice NZ Limited, a licensed Financial Advice Provider (FSP1009051). The figures here are general and current as at June 2026. For advice on your situation, speak to a licensed financial adviser.