If you're in business, there are lots of things that you probably write off as not applying to you. Paid sick days, four weeks' holiday a year, the opportunity to negotiate a pay rise ...
But what about KiwiSaver?
I know lots of self-employed people who say it's not worth them being part of the retirement savings scheme, because they do not have an employer to match their contributions, or their retirement fund is their business. But they are missing out on a big opportunity.
It is worth signing up for the scheme, even if you are your own boss. Self-employed people have a lot of flexibility when it comes to KiwiSaver and can contribute as little or as much as they like. If you contribute $1042 in one year, the Government will give you a $521 member tax credit. There are not many investments that offer you that sort of return.
If you have not yet bought a house, you can withdraw cash from your KiwiSaver account to help with that, and depending on your income and the cost of the house you're buying, you may qualify for a subsidy.