Centrelink Benefits

Commonwealth Seniors Health Card

(Information current as at 3 October 2024)

What is it?

A Commonwealth Seniors Health Card is a concession card that offers cheaper health care and some discounts if you have reached age pension age but are not receiving aged pension from Centrelink.

Medical Benefits

  • Cheaper medicine is available under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
  • Bulk-billed doctor visits (at the doctor's discretion).
  • A bigger refund for medical costs when you reach the Medicare Safety Net.
  • You may also get one or both Economic Support Payments.


Eligibility Basics

  • Over pension age (see table below).
  • Unable to get a payment from Centrelink or the Department of Veterans' Affairs.
  • Under the income test limit.
  • Meet residence rules.
If your birthdate is You'll be old enough at
1 January 1954 to 30 June 1955 66 years
1 July 1955 to 31 December 1956 66 years and 6 months
On or after 1 January 1957 onwards 67 years

Income Test

The income tests use adjustable taxable income and a deemed amount from accountant-based income streams. This is reviewed 20 September each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.


To pass the income test, you must earn no more than:

  • $99,025 a year if you are single
  • $158,440 a year for couples
  • $198,050 a year for couples separated by illness, respite care or prison


Add $639.60 to these amounts for each child in your care. 


There is no asset test.


Residency

You must be an Australian resident, or the holder of a Special Category visa, and live in Australia.


Newly arrived residents generally need to wait 2 or 4 years before getting the card, with some exemptions.


You must continue to meet the residency rules for as long as you are receiving the payment.


For more information to determine which payments you are eligible for, please visit the following website: https://www.humanservices.gov.au/


If anything happened to you, would your loved ones know where to start in relation to your affairs? If you haven't already, now is a great time to review our Financial Wellbeing Checklist to make sure you are on track.

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Discuss Further?

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Disclaimer
The information provided in this information sheet does not constitute advice. The information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your individual financial situation. It should not be used, relied upon, or treated as a substitute for specific professional advice. We recommend that you contact Brentnalls SA before making any decision to discuss your particular requirements or circumstances.

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