The Age Pension is an important source of income support for many eligible older Australians. In 2026, the amount a person receives depends on several factors, including whether they are single or partnered, their income, assets, residency circumstances, and eligibility for additional supplements. Services Australia uses income and assets tests to determine the payment rate.
The Australian Age Pension is designed to provide income support to people who have reached Age Pension age and meet other eligibility requirements. Services Australia currently states that Age Pension age is 67 or older, with income, assets, and residence rules also applying.
Age Pension payments are generally assessed using income and assets tests. Services Australia explains that different payment rates apply to single people and couples, and a partner's income and assets can also be considered.
When reviewing your potential payment, consider:
The official Services Australia payment information should be checked for the rate applicable to the relevant payment period because pension rates and thresholds can change.
Income is one of the main factors that can reduce an Age Pension payment. Services Australia states that most types of income can be considered when assessing eligibility and calculating the payment rate.
From 1 July 2026, the standard income-test free area is:
Above the applicable free area, the pension can reduce according to the relevant income-test rules.
Financial assets may also be assessed using deeming rules, which estimate income from certain financial investments.
The assets test is another important part of the Age Pension assessment. From 1 July 2026, the full-pension asset limits include:
Higher asset levels may still allow a part pension, subject to the applicable cut-off limits.
Your principal home is generally excluded from the assets test, although other real estate can be included.
People receiving the Age Pension may qualify for other payments, supplements, or concessions depending on their circumstances. Services Australia lists the Pension Supplement and Energy Supplement among possible additional payments. Rent Assistance may also be available to eligible pension recipients who pay rent.
Other support can include:
Eligibility and payment amounts vary, so individual circumstances need to be considered.
The maximum Age Pension rate should be treated as a general reference rather than a guaranteed payment amount. Income, assets, relationship status, and other circumstances can change the amount received.
For a more accurate assessment:
Services Australia also provides information about preparing an Age Pension claim and the supporting documents that may be required.
Age Pension payments in Australia in 2026 depend on more than the published maximum rate. Services Australia considers income, assets, relationship status, residency, and other circumstances when determining how much an eligible person can receive.
The income and assets thresholds also provide important information when estimating eligibility and payment levels. Because rates and rules can change, checking the latest information directly with Services Australia is the best way to understand the amount that may apply.