FAQs
Membership & Contributions
Is Cook Islands superannuation compulsory?
Yes. Under the Cook Islands National Superannuation Act, membership is compulsory for all employees working in the Cook Islands, or employed outside the Cook Islands by an employer resident here. Limited exclusions apply under section 37 of the Act.
How does CINSF work?
Members contribute 5% of their earnings, matched by 5% from their employer. These contributions are invested in your compulsory account to support you in retirement.
Can I contribute more than 5%?
Yes. You can make additional contributions to a voluntary account. Employers are not required to increase their contributions above 5%.
What is my superannuation number (NSF)?
Your NSF number is your CINSF identification number. It starts with “NSF” followed by six digits, e.g. NSF123456. Contact our office to find yours.
What happens to my contributions?
Your contributions are invested in managed investment schemes across assets like shares, bonds, and cash. The mix depends on the investment option you chose when joining.
Investment Options
How do I know which investment option to pick?
A questionnaire is available in the Member Handbook and online to help guide you toward the option best suited to your circumstances.
What is the difference between an income asset and a growth asset?
An income asset is generally low risk with steady, modest returns — like a term deposit or government bond. A growth asset is higher risk with potential for higher returns, like shares.
Can I change my investment option?
Yes. Contact the CINSF office to request a change to your investment option.
What is the default investment option if I don’t choose?
If you did not choose an option before 1 January 2022, you defaulted to the Conservative Fund. Members who joined after 1 January 2022 default to the Balanced Fund.
Accessing Your Super
When can I access my superannuation?
At retirement age, currently 60. You can also opt to continue working and contributing beyond 60 until you’re ready to retire.
Can I access my superannuation before I turn 60?
If you are between 55 and 59 and are made redundant or suffer ill-health, you may be eligible for an early retirement pension and/or a lump sum withdrawal, depending on your compulsory account balance.
If I am in financial hardship, can I access my superannuation?
No. However, if you have a voluntary account, you may be able to access those funds.
What is my superannuation balance?
Your balance includes your compulsory account (employee and employer contributions), your voluntary account, and any investment returns. Check your balance by logging into the CINSF Member Portal.
Voluntary Account
What is the voluntary account?
An optional account where you can make additional contributions beyond the compulsory 5%. Funds can be accessed once a year. A minimum balance of $100 must remain for the account to stay active. Pensioners cannot open a new voluntary account but can retain an existing one.