The Hnry alternative for NZ sole traders

At every income level, PayWren Solo is dramatically cheaper.

But (and this matters): you're paying Hnry for something different. Hnry calculates and pays your tax for you automatically. PayWren expects you to file your own returns.

If filing your own returns terrifies you, Hnry's 1% is a fair price for the anxiety relief. If filing your own returns sounds totally manageable (it usually is for sole traders), PayWren saves you serious money.

The real difference: cash flow

With Hnry: every payment from your client lands in Hnry's account. Hnry takes their 1%, calculates your tax owing, sets aside your income tax + ACC + GST, and pays the rest to you. You never see the gross amount. You can't accidentally spend tax money: you never have it.

With PayWren: every payment from your client lands directly in your bank account. You see the gross amount. You're responsible for setting aside ~30–39% for tax + GST + ACC and paying it when due. PayWren shows you exactly how much you owe. But it's your job to actually transfer it.

Which is right for you? Be honest with yourself. If you struggle with budgeting and tax money has "accidentally" gone to other things in the past, Hnry's forced discipline is worth the 1%. If you're disciplined and prefer maximum control over your cash flow, PayWren saves you thousands.

When to switch from Hnry to PayWren

Most people switch when they hit one of these:

1. Your income grew and the math stops working. At $50k/year, Hnry costs $575 (that's $48/month). At $150k/year, you're paying the full $1,725 cap (that's $144/month). Suddenly hiring an accountant ($800–1500/year) plus paying $12/month for PayWren is half the price.
2. You want to brand your invoices properly. Hnry's invoice template has Hnry branding. PayWren lets you upload your logo, use your colours, and remove the PayWren badge on paid plans.
3. You want clients to pay your bank account directly. Some clients (especially government and corporates) prefer not to pay a third-party platform. PayWren invoices link to your Stripe account or your bank. Directly to you.
4. You're working with an accountant anyway. If you already have an accountant doing your end-of-year return, Hnry's tax filing service is duplicate effort.
5. You want to take advantage of timing. Hnry pays your tax as you earn. If you'd rather hold tax money in your savings account earning interest until the due date, PayWren gives you that flexibility.

When to stick with Hnry

Being honest:

• You're new to sole trading and tax terrifies you. Hnry's "never think about tax again" promise is real
• You don't have an accountant and don't want one. Hnry replaces the need
• You're a sole trader who genuinely won't save for tax. Hnry's forced discipline is worth the cost
• Your income is under ~$30k/year and you're not GST registered. Hnry's flat handling is simpler

Is Hnry worth it? Run the numbers.

The cost gap between Hnry and PayWren depends on your income. At $80k, Hnry's 1% fee (inc GST) comes to $920/year. PayWren's Solo annual plan is $115/year. Unlike Hnry, your set-aside buffer stays in your savings account earning interest until tax is due.

Use the calculator below to see the difference at your income level. Adjust the assumptions if your savings rate or tax set-aside percentage differs.

Fair disclosure: Hnry includes income tax filing, GST filing, and ACC levy management that PayWren does not. These are real services worth weighing alongside the cost figure above. This calculator is for general comparison only and is not financial or tax advice.