How to Apply for the Age Pension

How to Make an Application for an Australian Age Pension

The Australian Age Pension provides a crucial financial safety net for older Australians. If you're approaching retirement, it's essential to understand the steps involved in applying for the pension.

This guide takes you through the entire process, from checking eligibility to lodging your claim and managing your payments.

Understand the Age Pension and Your Eligibility

Before applying, it’s important to ensure you meet the basic eligibility requirements for the Age Pension. These include:

• Age: You must be at least 67 years old (as of 1 July 2023).
• Residency: You must be an Australian resident and have lived in Australia for at least 10 years (with at least 5 continuous years).
• Means Testing: Your income and assets must fall below certain thresholds to qualify for a full or part pension.

If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, you can use the Age Pension Eligibility Estimator provided by Services Australia.

When Can You Apply?

You can submit your application for the Age Pension up to 13 weeks before you reach Age Pension age.

Applying early helps avoid delays in your first payment and ensures your claim is processed promptly.

Centrelink may also backpay your pension to the date you lodge your application, not your birthday, so applying early can be financially important.

Set Up a myGov Account

Most Age Pension applications are made online through myGov. If you don’t already have an account, you’ll need to create one and link it to Centrelink.

• Visit myGov and create an account using your email address.
• Log in and select “Link a service”.
• Choose “Centrelink” and follow the steps to link your account. You’ll need your Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN) if you’ve dealt with them before.

If you're unfamiliar with technology, Centrelink can help set this up in person or over the phone.

Prepare Your Documents

Gathering the correct documents before you begin your application will help ensure it's processed without delays. You’ll typically need:

Proof of Identity:

• Birth certificate or passport
• Driver’s licence or Medicare card
• Australian citizenship documents (if applicable)

Financial Information:

• Bank account details (BSB and account number for payments)
• Superannuation statements
• Investment information (e.g. shares, term deposits)
• Real estate details (other than your home)
• Income statements (including foreign pensions or rental income)

You may also need documentation related to your partner’s income and assets if you're in a relationship.

Start Your Online Claim

Once you’re logged into myGov and linked to Centrelink:

• Select “Make a claim or view claim status”.
• Choose “Get started” next to Age Pension.
• Answer the pre-claim questions to confirm your eligibility.
• Follow the prompts to fill in your claim. This includes personal, income, and asset information.

Take your time and review each section carefully. You can save your application and return to it later if needed.

Upload Your Documents

Once your online form is complete, you’ll be asked to upload your supporting documents.

You can do this through the myGov upload feature or by delivering them to a Centrelink service centre.

Make sure documents are clear and readable. Acceptable formats include PDF, JPG, and PNG.

Track Your Claim

After submission, you can track the progress of your claim online through myGov:

• Login to myGov
• Select Centrelink → “View claim status”

Centrelink may contact you if additional documents or clarification is needed.

Be sure to check your myGov inbox regularly for updates.

How Long Will It Take?

Processing times can vary. Typically, Age Pension claims are assessed within 4 to 8 weeks of submission.

Delays can occur if documents are missing or further assessment is needed.

If your claim is approved, your pension will generally start from the date of submission, provided all documents were in order.

Receiving Your Pension Payments

Once approved, you’ll receive payments every fortnight into your nominated bank account.

How much will you receive? The amount depends on your income and assets. In 2024–25, the maximum basic rate is:

Recipient	Maximum Fortnightly Payment
single	$1,116.30
couple	$841.40

These figures include the pension supplement and energy supplement and are updated twice a year (March and September).

What If You're Rejected?

If your claim is unsuccessful, you have the right to appeal the decision. Start by:

• Requesting a review by a Centrelink officer
• If needed, escalate to the ART (Administrative Review Tribunal)

You can also seek free support from a Financial Information Service (FIS) officer or community advocacy organisations.

Keep Centrelink Updated

Once you’re receiving the pension, you must inform Centrelink if there are changes in:

• Your income (e.g. from work, investments, or overseas pensions)
• Your assets (buying or selling property, receiving gifts or inheritances)
• Your living arrangements (moving house, entering aged care, separation)

Failing to report changes could result in overpayments or fines.

Alternative: Apply in Person or by Phone

If you're unable to use myGov, you can:

• Visit a Centrelink service centre for face-to-face help
• Call the Centrelink Older Australians line on 132 300
• Request a paper application form (SA002)

Centrelink staff can assist you with lodging your claim, verifying documents, and answering your questions.

Final Thoughts on Applying for the Age Pension

Applying for the Age Pension in Australia involves several steps, but with preparation and support, it can be a straightforward process. The key is to apply early, have your documents ready, and understand how your financial situation impacts your eligibility.

If you're unsure about any part of the application, don’t hesitate to speak to a Centrelink officer or reach out to the team at OMS Group for guidance.

With the right help, you can make the transition to retirement with greater peace of mind and financial stability.