In this guide
Australia has a means tested social security system, which is designed to work like a safety net.
The more in assets or income you have, the less Age Pension you may be entitled to.
If your assets or income exceed the cut off limits, you will not be eligible for a pension at all, but the limits are reasonably generous so it’s worth checking whether you are entitled to at least some Age Pension.
If you find you are currently ineligible for the Age Pension, never fear. There are steps you can take to maximise your pension entitlements.
Watch our comprehensive video guide below or continue reading to learn 12 ways to increase your Age Pension.
SuperGuide members have access to an extended version which gives additional tips and case studies so you can see how they are applied in the real world.
Learn more about the benefits of a SuperGuide membership.
The current maximum rates of Age Pension
- For singles: $1,144.40 per fortnight (approximately $29,754 per year)
- For couples: $862.60 per fortnight each (approximately $22,428 per year each)
(Rates effective from 20 September 2024 to 19 March 2025 and include base pension plus supplements.)
Learn more about Age Pension rates.
Times are a-changing
Over the past 15 years there have been significant changes to the assessment of assets and income for social security purposes. Unfortunately, it’s been mostly bad news but there are bright spots, such as the increase in the work bonus (details later in this article).
