We've gone cheque-free
- From 28 February 2020, we stopped issuing and accepting domestic cheques.
- From 29 April 2022, we stopped accepting foreign cheques and international bank drafts.
There are a number of ways we can help you with alternative payment methods, including Stepping UP digital banking workshops or our digital support hub. You can also read our frequently asked questions.
Other ways to receive international payments
To receive money from overseas you can use an International Money Transfer (also known as a Telegraphic Transfer). This is a faster and more secure alternative to receiving foreign cheques.
To receive a payment electronically instead of by cheque, you’ll need to contact the person or company sending you money and request a change in the payment method. You'll also need to supply them with some details including:
- Your account name and number and physical address
- Kiwbank details including our physical address and Swift code
Find out more about receiving money from overseas and all the information you'll need to supply.
Overseas pension or benefit payment by cheque
If you’ve been receiving an overseas pension or benefit payment by cheque from one of the countries below, you'll need to use an alternative way to receive these payments into your bank account electronically.
The two ways to receive pension or benefit payments from Australia and the United Kingdom are:
- Special Banking Option
- Direct Payment Option
You can learn more about these payment options and how to apply at workandincome.govt.nz.
If you receive pension and benefit payments from Canada or the United States (social security payments), you can receive these by direct deposit to your account by completing the forms found on the links below:
Canada
- Complete the Foreign direct deposit enrolment form found on the Public Services and Procurement Canada website:
United States
- Complete the Direct Deposit Sign Up Form - New Zealand (SSA-1199-OP19), found on the US Social Security Administration website:
Once you download and complete the form, email it to international@kiwibank.co.nz to have it signed by a Kiwibank representative. When you receive the form back, submit it via the relevant website above.
Need help going digital?
We're here to help as you switch from cheques to alternative methods of payment. The good news is there are lots of easy and convenient ways to make payments, that are cheaper, faster and secure.
Stepping UP
We've partnered with community organisation, Stepping UP, who runs workshops at selected libraries for anyone keen to understand the basics of digital banking.
We've partnered with community organisation, Stepping UP, who runs workshops at selected libraries for anyone keen to understand the basics of digital banking.
Digital support hub
Our how-to-videos and step-by-step guides will talk you through the basics of internet banking and keeping safe online.
Our how-to-videos and step-by-step guides will talk you through the basics of internet banking and keeping safe online.
Personal digital banking support
If you're new to banking online and would like one-on-one support from a Kiwibank digital expert, please fill out our digital banking support form and we’ll get in touch as soon as we can.
If you're new to banking online and would like one-on-one support from a Kiwibank digital expert, please fill out our digital banking support form and we’ll get in touch as soon as we can.
Internet banking
If you need to pay a bill or transfer money to a tradesperson, friend or family member, you can do this online with internet banking.
If you need to pay a bill or transfer money to a tradesperson, friend or family member, you can do this online with internet banking.
Mobile app
You can pay bills and transfer money on your mobile while you’re out and about with our app which offers a full range of banking services.
You can pay bills and transfer money on your mobile while you’re out and about with our app which offers a full range of banking services.
Visa Debit Card
Use a Visa Debit Card for your everyday spending – you can pay for your shopping online or in person, or get cash out of an ATM.
Use a Visa Debit Card for your everyday spending – you can pay for your shopping online or in person, or get cash out of an ATM.
Staying safe online
We work hard to protect your money and personal information. This includes two online authentication services that provide an extra layer of security when you're using internet banking and our mobile app.
KeepSafe
There are a range of questions and answers to help keep your account secure. You’ll set it up the first time you log in to internet banking and then each time you log in, you’ll need to answer a KeepSafe question to access your accounts.
There are a range of questions and answers to help keep your account secure. You’ll set it up the first time you log in to internet banking and then each time you log in, you’ll need to answer a KeepSafe question to access your accounts.
Two factor authentication
Some transactions you make online or on our app will require two-factor authentication. You’ll be sent a one-time PIN to your mobile to complete your transaction. This is to make sure that you're the person who has requested the transaction.
Some transactions you make online or on our app will require two-factor authentication. You’ll be sent a one-time PIN to your mobile to complete your transaction. This is to make sure that you're the person who has requested the transaction.
Educate yourself about scams and safety
If you haven’t spent a lot of time online, then the independent online safety watchdog Netsafe would be worth a visit. Netsafe is full of information and tips about how to stay safe online and avoid scams. We also have resources to help you stay safe online.