Age Pension Increased to $950: The Age Pension in Australia has been increased to $950 per fortnight as of March 2025. This increase is aimed at helping retirees manage the rising cost of living amid inflation and growing financial pressures. But the key question is: Are you eligible to receive the Age Pension? In this article, we’ll break down the eligibility criteria, income and assets tests, payment structure, benefits, and how to apply for the pension.
Age Pension Increased to $950
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| New Age Pension Rate | $950 per fortnight (as of March 2025) |
| Eligibility Age | 67 years and above |
| Residency Requirement | Must be an Australian resident for at least 10 years, with at least 5 continuous years |
| Income Test | Full pension: Income below $212/fortnight; Partial pension: Income up to $2,500.80/fortnight |
| Assets Test | Full pension: Homeowner assets below $314,000; Partial pension: Assets below $695,500 |
| Application Process | Services Australia |
| Updated Guidelines | March 2025 adjustments for cost-of-living increase |
The Age Pension increase to $950 per fortnight in March 2025 is a welcome change for many retirees. However, eligibility depends on age, residency, income, and assets. If you’re unsure about your qualification, use the Age Pension calculator or speak with a financial advisor to maximize your benefits.
Understanding the Age Pension
The Age Pension is a financial safety net provided by the Australian government to support older citizens who have retired or are unable to work. The pension ensures that elderly Australians can cover their basic living expenses such as housing, food, medical care, and utilities.
The March 2025 increase in the Age Pension rate is part of the government’s regular biannual adjustments that help retirees keep up with rising living costs and maintain a decent standard of living. This increase also aligns with broader economic trends and inflationary pressures.
Who Is Eligible for the Age Pension?
To qualify for the Age Pension, you need to meet three primary criteria:
1. Age Requirement
- You must be 67 years or older to apply for the Age Pension as of 2025.
- If you are under 67, you may need to wait until you reach the eligibility age, unless you qualify for alternative financial assistance.
2. Residency Requirement
- You must be an Australian resident.
- You should have lived in Australia for at least 10 years.
- At least one continuous period of 5 years is required within those 10 years.
- Special rules apply for those who have worked overseas but have returned to live in Australia permanently.
3. Means Testing (Income & Assets Tests)
- The government assesses your income and assets to determine eligibility.
- If you exceed the set limits, you may receive a reduced pension or no pension at all.
- Those with significant superannuation savings may see reductions in their pension eligibility.
Income and Assets Test Breakdown
Income Test
The government evaluates your total income from various sources, including:
- Salary or wages (if still working part-time)
- Rental income from investment properties
- Superannuation withdrawals
- Dividends from shares or managed funds
- Business profits (if self-employed)
How much income can you earn before losing the Age Pension?
- Full Age Pension is provided if you earn less than $212 per fortnight.
- Partial Age Pension is available if your income is below $2,500.80 per fortnight.
- Any income exceeding these thresholds will reduce the amount of pension received.
Assets Test
The assets test applies to property, savings, and investments:
- If you own a home, your total assets must be below $314,000 to qualify for the full pension.
- If you have assets up to $695,500, you may still receive a reduced pension.
- Non-homeowners have a higher asset threshold, as they require additional funds for housing.
What counts as assets?
- Property (excluding your primary home)
- Superannuation savings (if over the preservation age)
- Vehicles, boats, and caravans
- Shares, bonds, and managed funds
- Collectibles and valuable items
- Business assets (if applicable)
Benefits of Receiving the Age Pension
Apart from the fortnightly payment, Age Pension recipients can access additional benefits such as:
- Pensioner Concession Card (PCC): Provides discounts on medicines, electricity, public transport, and medical expenses.
- Rent Assistance: Available for pensioners who do not own their homes.
- Energy Supplement: Helps cover electricity and gas bills.
- Additional Support for Disability or Carers: If you have a medical condition or are caring for a dependent, you may receive extra payments.
How to Apply for the Age Pension?
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Use the Age Pension Calculator on the Services Australia website to check if you qualify.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You’ll need: Proof of age (birth certificate or passport). Proof of residency (citizenship or visa documents) . Financial statements showing income and assets. Superannuation details
Step 3: Apply Online or In Person
- Online: Apply via the myGov portal
- In Person: Visit a Centrelink office
Step 4: Wait for Approval
- Processing time can take 4 to 6 weeks.
- You may be contacted for additional information.
- Pension payments commence once the application is approved.
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FAQs About Age Pension Increased to $950
1. What happens if my income or assets change after I start receiving the Age Pension?
If your financial situation improves, you may receive a reduced pension or lose eligibility. You must report any changes to Centrelink.
2. Can I still work while receiving the Age Pension?
Yes! The Work Bonus Scheme allows you to earn up to $300 per fortnight without affecting your pension.
3. What if I don’t qualify for the Age Pension?
If you don’t qualify, you may still receive other government support payments, such as the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC).
4. Is the Age Pension taxable?
No, the Age Pension is tax-free for most Australians.
5. Will the Age Pension amount increase again in the future?
Yes! The Age Pension is adjusted twice a year (March & September) to keep up with inflation.
