Centrelink Pension Payments March 2025: Who’s Eligible for the $550 + $650 Boost?

As of March 2025, there is no official confirmation regarding a $550 or $650 boost to Centrelink Age Pension payments. However, Age Pension rates are adjusted in March and September every year to keep up with the rising cost of living. The next adjustment is expected on 20 March 2025, with specific increases to be announced closer to that date.

To ensure you stay informed about potential pension increases, let’s break down the details of current pension rates, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for payments effectively.

Centrelink Pension

While there is no confirmed $550 or $650 boost to the Centrelink Age Pension in March 2025, pension payments are scheduled for an increase on 20 March 2025. The income and asset tests determine eligibility, so staying informed about updates from Services Australia is crucial.

If you’re eligible, applying for the Age Pension is a straightforward process through myGov or Services Australia service centers.

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Centrelink Pension: Current Age Pension Rates (As of 20 September 2024 – 19 March 2025)

Single Pensioners

1. Maximum fortnightly payment: $1,148.92
2. Maximum annual payment: $29,872

Couple Pensioners (Combined)

1. Maximum fortnightly payment: $1,732.02
2. Maximum annual payment: $45,032

These amounts include:

1. The base pension rate
2. The pension supplement
3. The energy supplement

The rates are expected to increase on 20 March 2025, and pensioners should check with Services Australia for updated amounts.

Centrelink Pension: Eligibility Criteria for the Age Pension

To qualify for the Centrelink Age Pension, you must meet three main criteria:

Age Requirement

1. You must be 67 years or older.

Residency Requirements

1. Must be an Australian resident at the time of application.
2. Must have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, with at least 5 years of continuous residency.
3. Some exceptions apply for refugees and individuals covered by international social security agreements.

Income and Assets Tests

1. The Age Pension is means-tested, meaning both income and assets determine eligibility and payment amounts.

Income Test

Assets Test

Note: These thresholds are subject to change in March 2025.

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Centrelink Pension: How to Apply for the Age Pension

If you’re eligible for the Age Pension, follow these steps to apply:

Prepare Necessary Documents

Gather:

1. Proof of age (birth certificate, passport, or driver’s license)
2. Proof of identity (Medicare card, tax file number, etc.)
3. Residency details
4. Details of income and assets

Set Up a myGov Account

1. Ensure you have a myGov account linked to Centrelink.

Submit Your Application

1. Lodge your application online via myGov or visit a Services Australia service center.

Await Assessment

1. Processing times vary, so ensure your information is accurate to avoid delays.

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Centrelink Pension (FAQs)