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.

3.9.1.100 Termination of HCC

Declaration expires

The LIC is granted for a period of 52 weeks and a declaration is made that the holder is eligible for that period.

When a LIC holder's declaration is nearing expiry (usually 4 weeks beforehand) a renewal form (SS054) is automatically sent to them. A cardholder is able to renew the card before the previous card expires.

The ex-CA (child) HCC is granted for a period of 52 weeks and a declaration is made that the holder is eligible for that period.

When an ex-CA (child) HCC holder's declaration is nearing expiry (usually 4 weeks beforehand) a letter is automatically sent to them advising them to renew their card. A cardholder is able to renew the card before the previous card expires.

Act reference: SS(Admin)Act section 37(8) Grant of claim, section 37A(3) A person to whom a concession card…

Application form returned or not returned

The following table outlines the consequences of returning or not returning the renewal form:

If the renewal application is… Then…
  • RETURNED, AND
  • the person's income is BELOW the applicable limit for the LIC, OR
  • the person's remains a full-time student for the ex-CA (child) HCC,
  • a new declaration is made, and
  • a new LIC is issued for 52 weeks commencing on the date on which the earlier declaration expires, OR
  • a new ex-CA (child) HCC is issued for 52 weeks commencing on the date on which the earlier declaration expires.

NOT LODGED,

eligibility automatically lapses.

Explanation: Return of a HCC is not sought where eligibility expires.

Act reference: SS(Admin)Act section 106A Automatic cancellation on cessation of qualification

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.9.1.70 LIC - assessment of income

Cardholders with dependants (1.1.D.65)

A LIC holder with a dependant may cease to satisfy the income test either:

  • because of an increase in their income, or
  • through the loss of a dependant.
    • Explanation: In the case of a loss of dependant, the disqualifying income limit reduces.

The loss of a dependant is to be disregarded unless that loss continues for 4 weeks. In that event the dependant is deemed to have ceased to be a dependant of the cardholder on the last day of that 4 week period.

Act reference: SSAct section 1071A Health care card income test

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.9.1.40 HCC Provisions for Children & Dependants, 3.9.1.70 LIC - assessment of income

Last reviewed: