The threshold for concession cards in Australia can vary depending on the specific card and the eligibility criteria associated with it. The thresholds often relate to income limits or the receipt of specific government payments.
Here are some general guidelines regarding thresholds for certain concession cards:
The Age Pension & associated Pensioner Concession Card is the most comprehensive Centrelink benefit for seniors.
- The assets test is now $935,000 for a homeowner couple or $622,250 for a single homeowner (excluding the home but including any account based pensions and other assets held).
But for those with assets above this level, the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) and potentially even the Low Income Health Care Card (LIHCC) may be available depending on how much income you are earning and the level of your financial assets including super.
Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC): There is no specific income threshold for the CSHC. Instead, it is determined by the income test applied to assess eligibility. Income from various sources, such as investments, is considered in the assessment. In the 2022 Federal Budget, the Government significantly increased the limits to support older Australians who rely on income from deemed financial investments, e.g., superannuation income streams (as well as the pension) to deal with the rising cost of living.
From 4 November 2022, the income limit changed. If you earn no more than $144,000 a year for a couple combined or $90,000 for a single – being your adjusted taxable income as well as deemed income from your account based pensions – you are now eligible. Note that the card is automatically renewed each year. It is cancelled if you leave Australia for longer than 19 weeks.
Health Care Card: The income thresholds for the Health Care Card vary depending on your family situation.
- Singles: The income limit was around $55,808 per year.
- Couples (combined): The income limit was around $89,290 per year.
- Families: The income limits varied depending on the number of children and their ages. For example, the income limit for a family with one dependent child was around $92,457 per year.
It’s important to note that these thresholds may change over time, so it’s advisable to check the official government website for the most up-to-date information.
Pensioner Concession Card (PCC): The Pensioner Concession Card is generally granted to individuals receiving specific government pensions and allowances, such as the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, or Parenting Payment (single) at the maximum basic rate. The income thresholds for these payments are determined by the Department of Human Services or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
It’s essential to note that these thresholds can change periodically, and different concession cards may have different eligibility criteria and thresholds. It’s recommended to visit the official website of the Australian Government Department of Human Services or the relevant state or territory government website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding concession card thresholds