On this input the two jurisdictions produce effectively the same net. The choice between them rests on factors outside the tax model — residency rules, cost of living, treaty position.
| Personal income tax progressive · top 39% | $26,865 |
| Social security 1.4% employee · capped | $1,199 |
| Total deductions | $28,064 |
| Gross income | $100,000 |
| Net take-home | $71,936 |
| Personal income tax progressive · top 25% | $18,350 |
| Social security 9.8% employee · uncapped | $9,750 |
| Total deductions | $28,100 |
| Gross income | $100,000 |
| Net take-home | $71,900 |
| Instrument | New Zealand · USD | Panama · USD | Δ (PA − NZ) |
|---|---|---|---|
I. Personal income tax | |||
Personal income tax NZprogressive · top 39%PAprogressive · top 25% | $26,865 | $18,350 | −$8,515 |
| subtotal · personal income tax | $26,865 | $18,350 | −$8,515 |
II. Mandatory social security & health | |||
ACC earner levy 1.39% on first NZD 142,283. NZ1.4% · capped NZ$142,283PA9.8% · uncapped | $1,199 | $9,750 | +$8,551 |
| subtotal · mandatory social security & health | $1,199 | $9,750 | +$8,551 |
| Total deductions | $28,064 | $28,100 | +$36 |
| Effective rate | 28.1% | 28.1% | 0.0 pp |
| Gross income | $100,000 | $100,000 | — |
| Net take-home | $71,936 | $71,900 | −$36 |
Table 1 · Statutory deductions, single-filer remote worker, FY2026 indicative. All amounts in USD. n/a where instrument does not apply. | |||
| PPP basis · NYC = 100 | New Zealand | Panama | Δ |
|---|---|---|---|
Cost-of-living index Indicative · placeholder until COL table ships | 72.0 | 50.0 | -22.0 pts |
Nominal net (annual) From the engine — exact | $71,936 | $71,900 | −$36 |
| Real net · Panama basket | $49,956 | $71,900 | +$21,944 |
Every line above can be traced to a primary instrument. We publish the model; you may toggle its parameters.
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