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Income test for pensions

This income test is effective from 1 July 2008. This information applies to the following payments:

  • Age Pension
  • Disability Support Pension
  • Wife Pension
  • Bereavement Allowance
  • Widow 'B' Pension
  • Carer Payment (adult)
  • Carer Payment (child)
  • Mature Age Allowance - granted before 1 July 1996
  • Parenting Payment - Sole Parents
  • Pension Bonus Bereavement Payment

Please Note: You are exempt from this income test if you are permanently blind and you get Age Pension or Disability Support Pension.

Income test

If you are To get full payment (per fortnight) you can earn up to* To get part payment (per fortnight) you need to earn less than+#
Single with no dependent children** $138.00 $1,519.50
Single with one child $162.60 $1,544.10
A couple (combined income) $240.00 $2,538.50
A couple but separated due to illness (combined income) $240.00 $3,003.00
Have additional children $24.60 per child

Note: the rate of payment is calculated under both the income and assets tests. The test that results in the lower rate (or nil rate) will apply.

* Income over these amounts reduces the rate of pension payable by 40 cents in the dollar (single), 20 cents in the dollar each (for couples).

** For Disability Support Pension, applies if over 21 only. For under 21 assets/income limits see your local Centrelink Office.

+ Pharmaceutical Allowance included.

# These figures may be higher if you also get Rent Assistance with your payment.



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