The maximum Age Pension for couples in Australia increases to $3,330 per month in 2025. This guide reviews the recent changes that will be in effect in 2025, the payment structure, eligibility, and other aspects that couples who will be financially dependent on the Age Pension will need to pay attention to.
Understanding the Age Pension for Couples and the Changes in 2025
Starting 20 September, 2025, the full Age Pension for couples will be $888.50 per person per fortnight. This means in total, couples will get $1,777 every fortnight, which constitutes to $3,330 per month, and approximately $46,202 in a year.
Eligibility for Age Pension for Couples
For couples to qualify, each individual must meet the following requirements:
- Age: The minimum age is now ‘67”. Residency: For the required amount of time, at least 10 years of permanent residency in Australia, and 5 years of it continuously.
- Means Test: The Age Pension relies on an income test and an assets test so it is in combined resources, earnings, and all other accounts, which includes investments, superannuation, and income.
- Income: Couples must have a combined income below $380 per fortnight to receive the full pension, though part pensions are available for couples earning up to $3,934 per fortnight.
Payment Structure and Supplements
The monthly payment total of $3,330 breaks down into:
Basic Rate: $813.90 per person per fortnight
- Pension Supplement: $64.00 per person per fortnight
- Energy Supplement: $10.60 per person per fortnight
These payments are subject to indexation every March and September. These payments are designed to counteract inflation, so are inflation proof during these time frames, and designed to help seniors.
Very Short Data Table
| Component | Rate (per fortnight) | Combined (per couple) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Rate | $813.90 each | $1,627.80 |
| Pension Supplement | $64.00 each | $128.00 |
| Energy Supplement | $10.60 each | $21.20 |
| Total | $888.50 each | $1,777.00 |
Important 2025 Rule Changes
- Income and asset limits for part pensioners have changed, resulting in more working couples receiving at least a part pension.
- The deeming rate will increase by 0.5%, which some will lose their pension for.
- The income limit for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card has increased, meaning more higher income retirees will have access to this card.
What Happens if Only One Partner Qualifies?
If one partner qualifies and the other one does not, the payments will be set as a couple and not the single rate. This helps keeps the fairness principle as well as the equity principle.
Impact on Retirement Planning
The Age Pension is designed to be a safety net, and is to be used as a last resort. It is thus vital to manage your private savings, especially if it is for retirement. Many will be shocked to find the part pension will be all they will receive.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What will the monthly Age Pension amount for couples be in 2025?
Answer: Approximately $3,330 per month (for both partners combined).
2. Can working couples be eligible for a pension?
Answer: Yes. Under the income test, couples can earn $11,800 each without the pension being affected due to work related income exemptions.
3. Do things like the family home count as assets?
Answer: No. The family home is exempt from the asset test. However, other assets will be counted.
