Finance

$987.70 Pension Payment Plus $28.30 Supplement Starts Soon – Are You on the List?

The new $987.70 Parenting Payment (with an added $28.30 Pension Supplement) supports eligible Australian parents in covering key living expenses. This expanded guide explains who qualifies, how to apply online, and what additional benefits you may be entitled to. With clear steps, government links, and practical advice, you’ll learn exactly how to access support.

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$987.70 Pension Payment Plus $28.30 Supplement Starts Soon: The $987.70 Pension Payment plus a $28.30 Pension Supplement is a hot topic among Australians who depend on government support. With this new update rolling out soon, many are asking: “Am I eligible? How do I get it? What steps do I need to follow to ensure I receive these benefits?” If you’re wondering whether your name is on the list, you’re in the right place.

$987.70 Pension Payment Plus $28.30 Supplement Starts Soon
$987.70 Pension Payment Plus $28.30 Supplement Starts Soon

In today’s fast-changing economic environment, timely access to support can make a big difference in your financial well-being. This comprehensive article breaks down everything you need to know about the Parenting Payment and the Pension Supplement. Whether you’re a single parent juggling multiple responsibilities, a professional guiding clients through the Centrelink process, or someone planning future support options for your family, this resource is designed with you in mind.

$987.70 Pension Payment Plus $28.30 Supplement Starts Soon

FeatureDetails
Payment AmountUp to $987.70 per fortnight for single parents (includes $28.30 supplement)
Partnered PaymentUp to $698.30 per fortnight
EligibilityBased on residency, income/assets, child’s age, and caregiving status
Child Age CriteriaUnder 8 years for single parents; under 6 years for partnered parents
Payment FrequencyFortnightly
Claim MethodThrough myGov linked to Centrelink
Review PeriodPayments are adjusted every March and September
Additional SupportMay include Family Tax Benefit, Rent Assistance, and Child Care Subsidy
Official InfoVisit the Services Australia website

The $987.70 Parenting Payment plus $28.30 Pension Supplement offers a vital safety net for thousands of Australian families. In times of economic uncertainty, these benefits can help provide stability and peace of mind. The process to apply is straightforward, especially with the digital tools available via myGov.

Understanding the $987.70 Pension Payment and Supplement

The Parenting Payment is a cornerstone of Australia’s welfare support system, specifically designed to ease the financial pressure on primary carers of young children. Administered by Services Australia through Centrelink, the payment plays a crucial role in helping families stay afloat.

Eligible single parents can receive up to $987.70 per fortnight, which includes the $28.30 Pension Supplement. For partnered parents, the maximum rate is $698.30 per fortnight. In cases where a couple is temporarily separated due to reasons like illness, domestic violence, or incarceration, the amount may increase to $816.90 per fortnight.

These funds may appear modest on paper, but when combined with other family supports, they can provide consistent, meaningful relief for those facing financial hardship. This money is typically used for essentials like groceries, rent, school costs, clothing, and medical care. It’s also worth noting that these payments are indexed twice a year, in March and September, to keep up with inflation.

Who is Eligible for the Payment?

Understanding who qualifies can help you or someone you know receive the support they need. The criteria are clearly defined but must be followed carefully.

1. Residency Requirements

To apply successfully, you must:

  • Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
  • Be physically residing in Australia when you lodge your claim.
  • Meet any specific visa criteria if you are not a citizen.

2. Primary Carer Status

The payment is targeted at individuals who are the main caregiver for a dependent child. You must:

  • Be the child’s principal carer, meaning the one who has the most responsibility for the child’s daily needs.
  • Have the child living with you most of the time.

3. Child’s Age Criteria

The age of your youngest child will affect your eligibility:

  • If you are single, your child must be under 8 years old.
  • If you are in a couple, the youngest child must be under 6 years old.

Once your child exceeds the age limit, you may no longer qualify for the Parenting Payment. However, you might become eligible for other forms of income support, such as JobSeeker.

4. Income and Asset Test

Centrelink uses a means test to determine how much financial support you can receive:

  • Income Test: Single parents can earn up to $220.60 per fortnight without affecting the payment. Earnings above this threshold will reduce your payment at 40 cents for every extra dollar.
  • Assets Test: The value of your home and other assets matters. For example, single homeowners must have assets valued under $314,000, while non-homeowners may have slightly higher allowances.

These assessments ensure the system supports those in genuine need. For a precise estimate, use the Services Australia Payment and Service Finder.

$987.70 Pension Payment Plus $28.30 Supplement Starts Soon Claim the Payment

Applying for Parenting Payment through Centrelink has become more streamlined with online tools. Here is a complete guide:

  • Create or Log In to Your myGov Account:
    • Visit the myGov website.
    • If you don’t already have an account, register for free.
    • Link your myGov profile to Centrelink.
  • Verify Your Identity: Submit valid identity documents, which may include,
    • Driver’s license
    • Passport
    • Birth certificate
    • Medicare card
  • Ensure your details match those held by Centrelink to avoid delays.
  • Start a New Claim:
    • After logging in, go to the Centrelink section of myGov.
    • Select “Make a claim or view claim status”.
    • Choose the option for “Parenting Payment”.
  • Submit Documentation: You will need to upload,
    • Proof of your income and assets (e.g., payslips, bank statements)
    • Details about your child, including birth certificate or custody documents
    • Evidence of your residency status
  • Await Confirmation:
    • Centrelink will process your claim, which may take several days to a few weeks.
    • You will be notified of the outcome via myGov notifications or post.
    • Once approved, payments will begin on a fortnightly basis.

What is the $28.30 Pension Supplement?

The Pension Supplement is an extra payment added to your Parenting Payment to help manage essential expenses. You don’t have to apply for it separately—it is automatically included for those who qualify for Parenting Payment.

It is meant to ease the burden of:

  • Electricity and gas bills
  • Pharmaceutical needs
  • Transportation costs (e.g., public transport, fuel)
  • Telephone and internet charges

It provides more financial flexibility to cover unpredictable costs that come up day to day. While modest, the supplement ensures that critical utilities and health needs are more affordable.

Additional Support You May Be Eligible For

If you qualify for the Parenting Payment, you may also access other support services. These can work in tandem with your fortnightly payments to improve your household’s financial stability.

1. Family Tax Benefit (FTB)

  • For parents or guardians caring for children.
  • Paid either fortnightly or as a lump sum annually.
  • Divided into Part A and Part B, depending on family income and care levels.
  • Learn more: Family Tax Benefit

2. Child Care Subsidy (CCS)

  • Eases the cost of approved child care services.
  • Based on your family income, activity level, and child care type.
  • Paid directly to your child care provider.
  • Learn more: Child Care Subsidy

3. Rent Assistance

  • Fortnightly supplement if you pay rent and receive Parenting Payment.
  • The amount depends on how much rent you pay and your household situation.

4. Concession Cards

  • These include the Pensioner Concession Card or Health Care Card.
  • They offer discounts on:
    • Medical services
    • Prescription medicines
    • Utility bills and public transport

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FAQs On $987.70 Pension Payment Plus $28.30 Supplement Starts Soon

Q1: Can I get this payment if I work part-time?

Yes, you can work and still receive the Parenting Payment, though the amount may be reduced depending on how much you earn.

Q2: How often will I receive payments?

Payments are issued every two weeks (fortnightly), directly into your nominated bank account.

Q3: What happens if my child turns 8 (or 6 if partnered)?

Your eligibility will end, but you may be able to transition to JobSeeker Payment or another relevant benefit.

Q4: Do I have to apply for the supplement separately?

No, the $28.30 Pension Supplement is included in your Parenting Payment automatically.

Q5: Can non-citizens apply?

Only permanent residents and certain visa holders are eligible. Visit the Services Australia residency requirements page for complete details.

Q6: What should I do if my circumstances change?

Notify Centrelink as soon as possible. This includes changes in:

  • Income
  • Living arrangements
  • Relationship status
  • Number of dependent children
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Anjali Tamta
Hey there! I'm Anjali Tamta, hailing from the beautiful city of Dehradun. Writing and sharing knowledge are my passions. Through my contributions, I aim to provide valuable insights and information to our audience. Stay tuned as I continue to bring my expertise to our platform, enriching our content with my love for writing and sharing knowledge. I invite you to delve deeper into my articles. Follow me on Instagram for more insights and updates. Looking forward to sharing more with you!

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