As you approach retirement, bills and health costs can pile up fast. If you’re one of the Aussies affected by the 2009 pension changes, the Transitional Age Pension could provide steady support. Updated for 2025, it offers up to $959.70 every two weeks for singles. Here’s the lowdown on rates, eligibility, and how to get started.
What Is the Transitional Age Pension?
This pension helps people who were on part-rate Age Pension before September 20, 2009. It uses older income test rules to avoid lower payments under new laws. 1 You stay on transitional rates until they match or exceed standard Age Pension amounts. It’s all about fair transition into retirement.
Updated Payment Rates for 2025
Rates increased on September 20, 2025, to keep up with living costs. 10 These include the base rate plus an energy supplement for power bills. Payments are fortnightly.
| Situation | Maximum Base Rate | Energy Supplement | Total Per Fortnight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $945.60 | $14.10 | $959.70 |
| Couple (each) | $763.70 | $10.60 | $774.30 |
| Couple (combined) | $1,527.40 | $21.20 | $1,548.60 |
| Couple apart due to ill health (each) | $945.60 | $14.10 | $959.70 |
Your actual amount depends on income and assets—less if you earn more.
Who Qualifies for Transitional Age Pension?
You must have been getting a part pension on September 19, 2009, and still qualify under transitional rules. 10 Be an Australian resident, at pension age (67 in 2025), and pass tests.
Income Test Details
Singles can earn up to $218 fortnightly without cuts; couples up to $380 combined. 3 With dependent kids? Add $24.60 per child for singles or $12.30 each for couples. Report all income, including from abroad.
Assets Test Limits
Pensions reduce if assets exceed thresholds. For transitional rates from September 20, 2025: Singles cut off at $1,066,750 (homeowner) or $1,299,250 (non-homeowner). 2 Couples: $1,597,500 combined (homeowner). Check Services Australia for full details—your home usually doesn’t count.
How to Apply Step by Step
Already on Age Pension? Transitional rates apply automatically if eligible. 1 New applicants: Log into myGov, link Centrelink, and submit online. Provide ID, income proof, and asset details. Processing takes weeks—call 132 300 for help.
When and How Payments Arrive
Get paid every two weeks into your bank account. 10 Opt for weekly if needed. Changes in income or relationships? Report them pronto to avoid overpayments.
Fact Check: It’s Legit and Updated
Yes, these rates are official from Services Australia, effective September 20, 2025. 0 Always verify on their site—rumors online can mislead. This pension bridges old and new rules for fairness.
FAQs
What is the maximum transitional Age Pension for singles in 2025?
Singles get up to $959.70 fortnightly, including $945.60 base and $14.10 energy supplement.
Who is eligible for transitional Age Pension?
Those on part-rate pension before September 20, 2009, who are Australian residents at pension age and pass income/assets tests.
How much can couples get on transitional rates?
Each partner receives $774.30 fortnightly, or $1,548.60 combined.
When do transitional pension payments start?
Payments are fortnightly; apply via myGov for automatic assessment if eligible.
What is the income limit for transitional Age Pension?
Singles: Under $218 fortnightly; couples: Under $380 combined, with extras for dependent children.