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The age pension pays out regular income to eligible Australians. For some people, the age pension supplements other income to help them cover their costs of living. As with other government programs, the age pension has eligibility requirements. Today we’re going to talk about how to qualify for an age pension.
Age Requirements for the Aged Care Pension
In order to qualify for an age pension, you must meet certain age requirements. Currently, you must be 65 years or older. This requirement is the same for both men and women. Starting 1 July 2017, the qualifying age will be raised to 65 years and six months. Every two years thereafter, the age will increase by six months every two years. By 1 July 2023 the qualifying age will be 67 years.
Residence Requirements for the Aged Pension
Those seeking qualification for the age pension must also satisfy certain residence requirements. On the day you submit your claim for the aged pension, you must be physically present in Australia.
You must also have been living continuously in Australia for ten years. If you have been living in Australia on and off, then add up the total of all the years you have lived in Australia. This number must be at least 10 years in order to qualify for the age pension.
Income Test Requirements for the Aged Care Pension
In addition to age and residence requirements, you must also meet income test requirements to receive an age pension. The income test applies to the following family situations and payments:
- Age Pension
- Wife Pension
- Widow B Pension
- Bereavement Allowance
- Carer Payment
- Disability Support Pension
Different income cut-off points apply based on whether you’re single, married, disabled, have dependents, and other factors. If you’re permanently blind you are exempt from the income test.
Limit Assets to Qualify for the Aged Care Pension
In order to qualify for the age pension, your assets must be below a certain figure. Again, these figures depend on your marital status and other factors. If your asset value is above the limit, your pension will be reduced accordingly. Assets include cash, real estate, businesses, life insurance policies, farms, and vehicles, among other property.
A financial planner can apply for the age pension on your behalf, and this can be very helpful as you navigate the various requirements and the ramifications of the age pension on your overall retirement planning.
