Centrelink Age Pension Articles

When is a loan a gift?

When is a loan a gift?

And why does Centrelink care? A few weeks ago we recounted how the gifting rules worked for Mary, Jeffrey and Hannah. We received a lot of questions from members who were totally confused as to whether they had loaned or gifted money to family and friends....

What of those who rent in retirement?

What of those who rent in retirement?

Is it even doable? Our main topic this week shared the many ways that wealth in the home can be used to increase retirement income. But not everyone owns a home and those who don’t deserve support to fully understand all their options as well. It was once a...

When is a loan a gift?

Making the most of your home

... and mortgage in retirement Boosting your retirement income is the main aim for most retirees. In this, the second part of our 5-part series on the retirement income pillars, we detail the many ways your family home can offer both security and increased...

Are you Centrelink savvy?

Are you Centrelink savvy?

Five things you may not know Last week we introduced you to the concept of the five pillars in retirement; the major sources of support that ensure income and financial wellbeing post-work. These are: The Age Pension superannuation the primary residence...

Deeming rates frozen

Deeming rates frozen

 A promise to freeze deeming rates gives two years of income certainty The increase in interest rates is a mixed blessing for retirees. Higher rates are a negative for those still paying down a mortgage. They are a positive, however, if you are depending...

Everything you need to know about Centrelink

Everything you need to know about Centrelink

Avoid these costly errors A majority of retirees are on some form of government benefit at retirement age – just over 70% in fact. By the time retirees hit their 80s, 80% will be eligible for an Age Pension. So knowing how Centrelink works is critical. And...

Angry pensioners speak out

Angry pensioners speak out

Are retirees doing it tougher? As you are well aware, Election 2022 is underway. Claims, counter claims, promises and allegations are flying thick and fast. And during the past two weeks we have seen two older men (Ray from Newcastle and Fred from the Hunter...

Age Pension increase and earlier access

Age Pension increase and earlier access

Will this happen? In an announcement that would help 500,000 older Australians retire earlier, the Greens want to move the Age Pension eligibility age back down to 65. And increase the benefits by 25%. The announcement was made by Greens Welfare spokesperson...

Budget 2022 – What is in it for older Australians

Budget 2022 – What is in it for older Australians

Budget March 2022 for older Australians Click here for information about the October 2022 budget delivered by Jim Chalmers After weeks of leaks and speculation, the Treasurer presented the Federal Budget 2022-23 in parliament last night. There are wins and...