Rates effective 20 September 2026. Amounts shown are maximum basic rates before means testing.
These are maximum basic rates before income reductions. Energy Supplement, Pharmaceutical Allowance and Rent Assistance are not all included in every row.
Over 55
The higher 55+ rate has a nine-month condition
1. SingleThe published higher-rate category is for a single recipient.
2. Age 55 or olderAge is necessary, but it is not enough on its own.
3. Nine continuous monthsYou must have received income support continuously for at least 9 months.
Indicative income cut-offs
Situation
Maximum personal income
Single, no children
$1,557.17/fn
Single, with children — not principal carer
$1,655.67/fn
Single, 55+ after 9 months or partial capacity
$1,667.34/fn
Single principal carer
$2,399.50/fn
Single exempt principal carer
$2,868.00/fn
Partnered — own-income test
$1,439.34/fn
Rates effective 20 September 2026. Indicative cut-offs can move with supplements and personal circumstances.
For the taper mechanics, read the JobSeeker income cut-off guide. Use the calculator for your own Working Credit and partner-income position.
Assets limits
Situation
Hard asset limit
Single homeowner
$333,000
Single non-homeowner
$600,000
Couple combined — homeowner
$499,000
Couple combined — non-homeowner
$766,000
Rates effective 1 July 2026. Allowance assets limits are hard cut-offs, not taper starting points.
The allowance assets test is a hard cut-off. The principal home is generally excluded, while other assessable assets owned by you and your partner can count.
FAQ
What is the current JobSeeker rate for a single person?
The maximum basic rate is $824.90 per fortnight for a single person without dependent children. Energy Supplement and any other eligible supplements are separate.
Do all JobSeeker recipients over 55 get the higher rate?
No. A single recipient generally needs to be at least 55 and have received an income-support payment continuously for 9 months. Age alone does not trigger the higher rate.
How much can I earn before JobSeeker reduces?
The personal income free area is $150 per fortnight. Above it, the reduction depends on whether the standard two-band test or the single-principal-carer test applies.
Are the JobSeeker income cut-offs exact?
Services Australia describes the published cut-offs as indicative. Supplements, partner income, Working Credits and personal circumstances can move the point where payment reaches zero.
Does my home count under the JobSeeker assets test?
The principal home is generally excluded, but the homeowner and non-homeowner asset limits differ. Other assessable assets owned by you and your partner can count.
A positive estimate does not establish a payment start date. Check JobSeeker waiting periods and confirm the final decision with Services Australia.
Tax Accuracy & Sources
Reviewed: August 2026 · Tax year: 2026-27
Current-rate reference only. Rates shown are maximum basic amounts; Energy Supplement, Pharmaceutical Allowance, Rent Assistance, Working Credits, partner income, waiting periods and other eligibility rules can change the amount paid.
