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.

5.5.2.10 Single person 22 years & over, no dependents, income over $300 per fortnight

Summary

This topic shows the basic rate calculation using Benefit Rate Calculator B. The recipient has income of $360.00 per fortnight from investments and is in private rental accommodation (not shared).

The following table shows the steps involved in the basic rate calculation. The rates and income test parameters used applied at 20 September 2023 and are shown in dollars per fortnight. Current rates can be found in the A guide to Australian Government payments booklet on the Services Australia website.

Step Action $
1 Determine recipient's ordinary income (1.1.O.30) 360.00
2

Apply the personal income test to this amount:

  1. For income between $150.00 and $256.00, multiply by 0.5
    = ($256.00 − $150.00) × 0.5
    = $106.00 × 0.5
    = $53.00
  2. For income above $256.00, multiply by 0.6
    = ($360.00 − $256.00) × 0.6
    = $104.00 × 0.6
    = $62.40
  3. Add a and b
    = $53.00 + $62.40
    = $115.40

RESULT: INCOME REDUCTION

 

 

 

53.00

 

 

62.40

 

 

115.40
3

Determine the maximum payment rate:

  • Locate the maximum single rate
  • Add the applicable rate of RA
  • Add the applicable rate of ES

RESULT: MAXIMUM PAYMENT RATE

749.20
184.80
8.80
942.80
4

Subtract the income reduction from the maximum payment rate:

  • Maximum payment rate
  • Income reduction

RESULT: RATE OF ALLOWANCE

942.80
115.40
827.40

Note 1: For recipients of age pension age, the pension supplement will be added to the maximum payment rate determined at step 3.

Note 2: If the recipient is eligible for any other rate add-ons, for example, PhA, APWS, these amounts will be added to the maximum payment rate determined at step 3.

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.15.2 ES - qualification & payability

Last reviewed: