Changes mean more to qualify for pension

PEOPLE whose assets now exclude them from receiving the pension may soon become eligible under changes to be explained at a Dandenong seminar this month.
Centrelink is holding two seminars on 19 June and another two on 27 June at the Dandenong Club to explain forthcoming changes to pension eligibility.
Seminar times will be 3pm and 6pm on both days.
Centrelink’s financial information officer, Dallas Achilles, said the changes would come into effect on 20 September, but people should attend the seminars because they could lodge an application as early as 21 June.
Mr Achilles said the seminars would help people determine whether they are eligible for the pension.
“Under the changes, the pension assets test taper rate will be halved,” he said.
“This means that a Centrelink customer’s pension payment will be reduced by only $1.50 per fortnight, instead of $3 per fortnight, for every $1000 of assessable assets above the allowable asset limits. The change will affect a number of customers receiving age pension, disability support pension and carer payment.
“Customers who receive a part-pension because of the value of their assets may receive automatic payment increases in September.
“Many people who were previously ineligible for a payment because of the value of their assets may soon become eligible for a pension. This will include some Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders.”
Bookings are essential for the seminars. Call Centrelink on 13 63 57 for more information.