Payment Calculators
Understanding how your Centrelink payments are calculated can help you better manage your finances and expectations. This section explains the calculation methods and provides tools to estimate your payments.
How Payments Are Calculated
Income Test
Your payment may be reduced based on your income:
- Free Area: Amount you can earn without affecting your payment
- Taper Rate: Rate at which payment reduces for each dollar earned above free area
- Cut-off Point: Income level where payment reduces to zero
Assets Test
Your payment may be affected by your assets:
- Free Area: Asset value that doesn’t affect your payment
- Taper Rate: Rate at which payment reduces based on assets over free area
- Cut-off Point: Asset level where payment reduces to zero
Payment Rate Factors
JobSeeker Payment Factors
- Age (different rates for under 22, 22+, 60+)
- Relationship status
- Dependent children
- Accommodation situation
- Location (remote area supplement)
Additional Payments
- Rent Assistance: If you pay rent or board
- Pharmaceutical Allowance: Help with prescription costs
- Energy Supplement: Help with household energy bills
Current Payment Rates (2024)
JobSeeker Payment (per fortnight)
- Single, no children: $693.10
- Single, with dependent children: $745.20
- Partnered (each): $626.20
Note: Rates change regularly. Check Services Australia website for current rates.
Income Free Areas (per fortnight)
- Single: $150
- Partnered: $300 (combined)
- Principal carer: $150 + $24.60 per child
Online Calculators
Services Australia Payment Calculator
The official calculator on the Services Australia website provides:
- Personalized payment estimates
- Income test calculations
- Asset test calculations
- Comprehensive payment breakdowns
How to Use the Calculator
- Visit servicesaustralia.gov.au
- Navigate to “Payment Calculator”
- Enter your personal details
- Input income and asset information
- Review estimated payment amounts
Example Calculations
Single Person - Part-time Work
- Circumstances: Single, no children, earning $300/fortnight
- Calculation:
- Base rate: $693.10
- Income over free area: $300 - $150 = $150
- Reduction: $150 × 0.50 = $75
- Final payment: $693.10 - $75 = $618.10
Partnered Couple - One Working
- Circumstances: Partnered, partner earning $400/fortnight
- Calculation:
- Base rate (each): $626.20
- Combined income over free area: $400 - $300 = $100
- Reduction (each): $100 × 0.25 = $25
- Final payment (each): $626.20 - $25 = $601.20
Important Considerations
Estimates Only
- Calculator results are estimates only
- Actual payments may vary based on individual circumstances
- Always confirm with Centrelink for accurate information
Regular Updates
- Payment rates change regularly
- Income and asset test thresholds are reviewed annually
- Always use current rates for accurate calculations
Complex Situations
Some situations may require manual calculation:
- Business income
- Investment properties
- Irregular income
- Special circumstances
Getting Accurate Information
Centrelink Contact
For personalized payment calculations:
- Call Centrelink directly
- Visit a service center
- Use online account for real-time estimates
Professional Help
Consider financial counseling for:
- Complex financial situations
- Debt management
- Budgeting assistance
- Understanding payment impacts
Need Help?
If you need assistance understanding payment calculations or have questions about your specific situation, visit our Contact page or contact Centrelink directly.