Australia’s $987.70 Allowance in September 2024: How to Claim It and Check Eligibility

Australia provides several government allowances to help individuals in challenging circumstances, such as unemployment, study, or caregiving responsibilities. Among these is the $987.70 allowance, a lifeline for many Australians in need. This guide will walk you through how to claim it, check your eligibility, and understand the payment process for September 2024.

What is the $987.70 Allowance?

The $987.70 allowance is part of Australia’s social safety net, offered through Centrelink—the government’s agency for social security and welfare payments. This allowance is most commonly linked to programs such as the JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, and Parenting Payment, providing vital financial support to those who are unemployed, studying, or in special caregiving roles.

Australia’s $987.70 Allowance in September 2024

Who is Eligible for the $987.70 Allowance?

To qualify for the $987.70 allowance, you must meet a range of eligibility criteria. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements:

1. Age: You need to be aged between 22 and 67.
2. Employment Status: You must be unemployed, looking for work, or participating in approved study programs.
3. Citizenship: You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
4. Income and Asset Tests: You will need to pass Centrelink’s means tests, which assess your income, assets, and personal circumstances.
5. Activity Requirements: Active participation in job-seeking activities or approved full-time study is generally required unless exempted (e.g., caregiving for a dependent child).

Certain caregivers, such as those fostering or homeschooling, may be exempt from these activity requirements.

How to Apply for Australia’s $987.70 Allowance in September 2024

The process to apply for the $987.70 allowance is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to have all necessary documentation ready before you begin. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Visit the Centrelink website or app to verify your eligibility for the relevant allowance program.
2. Gather Your Documents: You will need proof of your identity, income, assets, and residency status. If you have dependents or are in a special caregiving role, be sure to provide that documentation as well.
3. Submit Your Application: You can apply online via your Centrelink account, over the phone, or by visiting a Centrelink office in person.
4. Assessment and Approval: Once submitted, Centrelink will assess your eligibility. If approved, you will start receiving payments according to the set payment schedule.

Payments are typically made fortnightly, depending on your Centrelink customer reference number (CRN). If your CRN ends in an odd number, you will receive payments on Wednesdays; if it ends in an even number, payments will arrive on Thursdays.

$1900 Pension Increase for Australian Seniors: Facts, Eligibility, and What It Means for You

Australia Pension Card Benefits 2024: Know Eligibility & Payment Date

Australia Pension Increase $1116.80 in September 2024, Check if you are eligible or not?

Different Programs Providing the $987.70 Allowance

The $987.70 amount is tied to several specific income support programs run by Centrelink, including:

• JobSeeker Payment: For individuals aged 25 and over who are actively seeking work.
• Youth Allowance Jobseeker: Financial support for young Australians aged 16-24 who are looking for work or pursuing full-time study.
• Parenting Payment: A payment designed for single parents or those in shared caregiving arrangements.
• Austudy: Support for full-time students, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
• Disability Support Pension: For individuals with disabilities who are unable to work full-time.

Australia’s $987.70 Allowance Payment Dates and Amounts

Centrelink payments are made on a fortnightly basis, and the specific payment date is determined by your CRN. Generally, the payment amount of $987.70 is the maximum amount you can receive under certain circumstances, but the final figure may vary depending on:

• Your income and asset levels.
• Your personal circumstances (such as having dependents or other caregiving responsibilities).

Keep in mind that Centrelink offers a wide range of other benefits, which might supplement your $987.70 allowance, such as rent assistance or additional payments for families.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the $987.70 Allowance?

The $987.70 allowance is a payment provided by Centrelink under various income support programs to help unemployed individuals, students, and caregivers manage essential expenses.

2. How do I qualify for the allowance?

You must be between 22-67 years old, meet income and asset tests, and be actively seeking work or studying, unless exempt from mutual obligations.

3. When are payments made?

Payments are made fortnightly, based on your CRN. Odd-numbered CRNs receive payments on Wednesdays, and even-numbered CRNs receive them on Thursdays.

4. Can I receive this allowance if I’m a student?

Yes, students can receive this allowance through programs like Youth Allowance or Austudy, depending on their circumstances.

5. How do I apply?

You can apply online via Centrelink’s website or app, by phone, or in person at a Centrelink office.