The Centrelink Age Pension provides financial support to Australian seniors, ensuring they can maintain a decent standard of living in retirement. As of February 2025, eligible pensioners can receive up to $780 per month, depending on their income and assets.
If you’re wondering whether you qualify, how much you’ll receive, and when you’ll get paid, this guide will cover everything you need to know, including eligibility, payment schedules, recent updates, and how to apply.
Key Details About the Centrelink Age Pension
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Criteria | – Must be 67 years or older – Must be an Australian resident for at least 10 years (with at least five continuous years) – Must pass the Income and Assets Test |
| Payment Amount | – Single: Up to $1,116.30 per fortnight – Couple (combined): Up to $1,682.80 per fortnight |
| Payment Schedule | – First Payment: February 6, 2025 – Second Payment: February 20, 2025 |
| Recent Updates | – 3.8% increase in Age Pension payments introduced in January 2025 to adjust for inflation |
| How to Apply | – Apply via myGov or visit a Centrelink service centre |
| Official Website | Centrelink – Services Australia |
What Is the Centrelink Age Pension?
The Centrelink Age Pension is a government-funded financial assistance program designed to help Australian seniors cover essential living expenses such as housing, utilities, food, and healthcare.
- The pension amount depends on income, assets, and relationship status.
- Payment rates are reviewed twice a year (March and September) to adjust for inflation and cost of living increases.
Who Qualifies for the Centrelink Age Pension in February 2025?
To qualify for the Age Pension, seniors must meet the following criteria:
1. Age Requirement
- You must be at least 67 years old.
2. Residency Requirement
- You must be an Australian resident.
- You must have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, with at least five continuous years.
- Special conditions apply for refugees and certain visa holders.
3. Income and Assets Test
Centrelink assesses your income and assets to determine your eligibility and payment rate:
- The Income Test considers earnings from work, pensions, superannuation, and investments.
- The Assets Test includes savings, property (excluding your primary residence), and investments.
- If your income or assets exceed the threshold, your pension amount may be reduced or denied.
For updated income and asset limits, visit Services Australia.
How Much Is the Age Pension in 2025?
The maximum fortnightly Age Pension rates for February 2025 are:
| Category | Base Rate | Pension Supplement | Energy Supplement | Total Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,020.60 | $81.60 | $14.10 | $1,116.30 |
| Couple (each) | $770.20 | $61.50 | $10.60 | $842.30 |
| Couple (combined) | $1,540.40 | $123.00 | $21.20 | $1,682.80 |
This means that a single pensioner can receive up to $2,232.60 per month, while a couple (combined) can receive up to $3,365.60 per month.
When Will Seniors Receive Payments in February 2025?
Centrelink pays pensions fortnightly, typically on Thursdays.
For February 2025, the payment dates are:
- First Payment: Thursday, February 6, 2025
- Second Payment: Thursday, February 20, 2025
If a payment falls on a public holiday, Centrelink usually processes payments early to prevent delays.
Recent Updates to the Age Pension in 2025
The Australian government periodically adjusts pension rates to reflect inflation and cost-of-living increases.
Key Update for 2025:
- In January 2025, Centrelink introduced a 3.8% increase in Age Pension payments.
- This increase helps seniors manage higher grocery bills, rising energy costs, and healthcare expenses.
How to Apply for the Centrelink Age Pension?
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the Age Pension by following these steps:
1. Create a myGov Account
- Visit myGov and set up an account.
2. Link Centrelink to myGov
- Once logged in, link your Centrelink account to access services online.
3. Prepare Required Documents
- Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driver’s license).
- Residency details (proof of Australian residency).
- Income and asset statements (bank statements, property details).
4. Submit an Online Claim
- Log in to myGov.
- Navigate to Centrelink and complete the Age Pension claim form.
5. Wait for Assessment
- Centrelink will process your claim and notify you of the outcome.
- Processing can take several weeks, so apply well in advance.
Alternative Application Method:
- You can apply in person at a Centrelink service centre.
Other Government Benefits for Seniors in 2025
In addition to the Age Pension, seniors may qualify for other government benefits, including:
1. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)
- Discounts on prescription medicines and medical services.
2. Pensioner Concession Card
- Discounts on utilities, transport, and healthcare costs.
3. Energy Bill Assistance Programs
- Financial support for rising energy costs.
4. Rent Assistance
- Additional financial aid for those renting private properties.
To check your eligibility for additional benefits, visit Services Australia.
Final Tips to Ensure a Successful Claim
- Apply early to avoid delays in receiving payments.
- Check all eligibility requirements before submitting your claim.
- Ensure your income and asset details are accurate to avoid processing delays.
- Monitor government updates for any changes to pension rates or eligibility rules.
If you think you qualify for the Age Pension, apply today via myGov or visit a Centrelink office for assistance.
