Lump sums while on income support
A lump sum is a one-off amount of money. They can count in your income test and may affect your payment from us.
When you need an Employment Separation Certificate
If you or your partner stop work or change from full time to casual work, you may need to give us an Employment Separation Certificate.
Gifting
If you give away your income or assets, they may still count towards your income and assets tests. This also applies if you sell them for less than they’re worth.
Payments while outside Australia
To get your payment or concession card while outside Australia, you must continue to meet the qualification rules at all times.
What to report when you report income to Centrelink
We need to know the gross employment income you and your partner get so we can pay you the right amount.
Financial investments
The value of your financial investments counts in the assets test and income test for payments from us.
Supporting documents for your Centrelink claim
When you claim a payment or service, we’ll ask you for some documents to support your claim.
Funeral bonds and prepaid funerals
Funeral costs you pay for in advance normally don’t count in your assets test for payments from us. There are some exceptions.
Weekly payment option
Some people can get income support payments paid each week instead of each fortnight.
Income maintenance period
This waiting period may apply if you or your partner have stopped work and got leave or redundancy payments.