The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.2.3.70 Pension bonus scheme (PBS) & pension bonus bereavement payment (PBBP) - description

Objective of PBS & PBBP

PBS is for people who qualify for Age but delay claiming Age while they, or their registered partner, continue to work for at least 960 hours each year. These people may receive a tax free lump sum bonus payment when they eventually stop working if they claim and receive Age. Some limitations apply to people over 75 years of age.

PBBP may be paid to the surviving partner of a deceased PBS member who did not claim PBS before their death.

How PBS & PBBP are paid

PBS is a one-off payment generally made with the first pension payment.

PBBP is a one-off payment made to the surviving partner after the death of a PBS member.

Background information

PBS commenced on 1 July 1998. A person wanting to defer their Age must have met the age and residence qualifications for Age before 20 September 2009.

PBBP commenced from 1 January 2008.

Act reference: SSAct section 92C Qualification for pension bonus, section 93WA Qualification for PBBP

Policy reference: SS Guide 1.2.3.10 Age pension (Age) - description

Last reviewed: