For many Australian seniors, the Centrelink Age Pension provides essential financial support during retirement.
In February 2025, eligible pensioners can receive up to $1,144.40 per fortnight if single or $862.60 per fortnight per person if part of a couple.
Payments will be made on 6 February and 20 February 2025, directly into recipients’ bank accounts. To qualify, applicants must be 67 years or older, meet residency requirements, and pass income and assets tests.
This guide explains eligibility, payment rates, and additional benefits to help you maximize your retirement income.
Age Pension Overview
The Age Pension is a government-funded payment designed to assist older Australians in meeting daily living costs. The pension is made up of three components:
- Base Pension Rate – The primary payment amount.
- Pension Supplement – Helps cover utilities, healthcare, and other expenses.
- Energy Supplement – Provides extra assistance for energy costs.
Maximum Pension Payments (February 2025)
| Recipient Type | Fortnightly Payment | Monthly Payment (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,144.40 | $2,288.80 |
| Couple (each) | $862.60 | $1,725.20 |
| Couple (combined) | $1,725.20 | $3,450.40 |
These rates are subject to indexation and may be adjusted in March 2025 based on inflation.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive the Centrelink Age Pension, applicants must meet several conditions:
1. Age Requirement
- You must be 67 years or older.
- The pension age increased to 67 for people born on or after 1 January 1957.
2. Residency Requirement
- You must be an Australian resident.
- You must have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, with at least 5 continuous years.
- Some exceptions apply, especially for refugees or those covered under international social security agreements.
3. Income and Assets Tests
Centrelink assesses your income and assets to determine eligibility and payment amounts.
Income Test
- The full pension is available for those earning below $204 per fortnight (singles) or $360 per fortnight (couples).
- Payments reduce as income increases.
- If income exceeds $2,332 per fortnight (singles) or $3,568 per fortnight (couples), the pension stops.
Assets Test
| Homeownership Status | Single Pensioner Limit | Couple Pensioner Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Homeowner | $301,750 | $451,500 |
| Non-Homeowner | Higher threshold | Higher threshold |
- The pension is reduced by $3 per fortnight for every $1,000 in assets above the limit.
- If your assets exceed the maximum threshold, you may not qualify for the pension.
For detailed thresholds, visit the Services Australia website.
How to Apply for the Centrelink Age Pension
Applying for the Age Pension can be done through Centrelink in three easy steps.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Proof of identity (passport, driver’s license).
- Tax File Number (TFN).
- Bank account details (for pension deposits).
- Income and asset details (bank statements, property ownership, superannuation information).
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Online: Apply through myGov by linking your Centrelink account.
- Phone: Call Centrelink’s Age Pension line.
- In-Person: Visit a Centrelink Service Centre.
Step 3: Wait for Processing
- Applications typically take 6-8 weeks to process.
- Centrelink may request additional documents before approval.
- Once approved, payments will be backdated to the application date.
Payment Schedule: When Will You Get Paid?
The Age Pension is paid fortnightly, directly into your bank account.
February 2025 Payment Dates
| Fortnight Start | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| February 1, 2025 | February 6, 2025 |
| February 15, 2025 | February 20, 2025 |
- If a payment date falls on a public holiday, Centrelink may process payments earlier.
- Check myGov for exact payment dates based on your schedule.
Additional Benefits for Pensioners
Besides the Age Pension, eligible recipients may receive extra financial assistance.
1. Pensioner Concession Card
- Discounts on medical services, prescriptions, and public transport.
- Reduced electricity, gas, and council rates.
2. Rent Assistance
- Available if you pay rent in private housing or community housing.
- Payment amount varies based on rent paid.
3. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)
- For self-funded retirees who don’t qualify for the pension.
- Offers discounted medications and bulk-billed doctor visits.
For a full list of benefits, visit the Services Australia website.
- The maximum Age Pension in February 2025 is $1,144.40 per fortnight for singles and $862.60 per fortnight per person for couples.
- Payments are scheduled for 6 February and 20 February 2025.
- To qualify, applicants must be 67 years or older, meet residency rules, and pass income and assets tests.
- Pensioners may also be eligible for extra benefits, such as Rent Assistance, Pensioner Concession Card, and the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.
- Apply via myGov for faster processing.
