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A step-by-step guide

We know a lot of people think applying for the Centrelink Age Pension is complex. That’s why we’ve created this video series which shows you exactly how to do it yourself, step-by-step. You can claim online or by completing the paper based form. The online application is convenient, secure, private—and can be simpler. 

These videos have been created to help guide you through that online Age Pension claim process. To make things easier and help you avoid mistakes along the way, each step contains:

  • Simple explanations,
  • Easy checklists and
  • Helpful hints.
     

You might like to open a new window for myGov so you can complete your claim side-by-side as you watch these videos. 

It’s important to note that the example scenarios in the videos represent an average age pension claim but may not cover all scenarios specific to you.  If you have a more complex situation, you may need to speak to a financial adviser.


Getting ready to claim the Centrelink Age Pension

Thinking about applying for the Age Pension? Watch this video for an overview of your eligibility, and how these videos can help.

  • What we’ll be covering in this video series.
  • How to understand if you’re eligible.
     

 

1. Linking Centrelink and myGov

In this video, you’ll find:
 

  • What to do if you don’t have a myGov account.
  • How to link myGov to your Centrelink account.

Tips and tricks

  • Have your CRN handy
  • If you don’t have a CRN, you can get one online or at a Centrelink service centre.
  • You can link Centrelink using a linking code or by answering some personal questions.
  • Make sure the details you enter match what Centrelink has on file as even small differences can cause issues.

 

2. Getting your paperwork ready

Ready to roll? Before you dive in, here’s how to get your paperwork organised and avoid delays. In this video, you’ll find: 
 

  • The documents you’ll likely need (including a handy checklist).
  • When you can apply.
  • Common mistakes that could delay your claim (and your payments).

Tips and tricks

  • You can start your application 13 weeks before you turn 67, but it’s worth getting your documents ready earlier.
  • Make sure your ID matches your Centrelink and myGov details.
  • If you have a partner, you’ll need to provide documents for them too even if they’re not making a claim.
  • Double-check that you’re using the right bank account for your Age Pension payments  and it’s in your name.
  • Use the checklist (linked in the video) to make sure you’ve got everything you need.

 

3. Starting your claim

You’re ready to apply. This video takes you through the first part of your claim:
 

  • Where to find the correct Age Pension claim form online.
  • Information about your relationship (even if your partner isn’t applying).
  • What personal details you’ll need to provide, including residency.
  • What Centrelink needs to know about your home ownership.

Tips and tricks

  • Don’t stress about finishing in one go: your online application can be saved and picked up later.
  • Include your partner’s details, because even if they’re not applying, it’s still required.

 

4. Your savings and investments

In this video, we cover what you need to include when it comes to the savings and investments you hold:
 

  • How to declare super, shares, income streams, managed funds and gifting.
  • What to include about property and assets.
  • What Centrelink needs to know about any loans or mortgages.

Tips and tricks

  • Include everything, even if it’s small: Centrelink wants to know about all your accounts and investments.
  • Be honest and up to date: give current balances and values to avoid delays or follow-up questions.

 

5. Your assets and income

This part of the application is all about your assets and the money you have coming in - what to include and how to report it:
 

  • Declaring any current or future income from work.
  • What counts as income (and what doesn’t).
  • How to value your assets.
  • How to cover your final paycheck and payouts.

Tips and tricks

  • For your income, answer for your current situation, and not what will happen when you turn 67, or become eligible in another way. 
  • For personal effects and household contents, many people declare a replacement value, but you should actually declare what you could sell the asset for second hand
  • Only include your final regular pay when asked about final payment, you don't need to include lump sums for leave or redundancy.

 

6. Review and submit your claim

Once you’ve completed your online claim, this video explains what comes next.
 

  • How to submit your claim and supporting documents correctly.
  • How partners can confirm the information in your claim.
  • What you need to do if you get any new payslips.
  • Processing times.
  • What happens if Centrelink needs more information?
  • What to do if your claim is rejected or you think there’s been a mistake.
  • How to request a review of your outcome.

Tips and tricks

  • Don’t forget, once you submit, you still need to upload your documents via myGov.
  • Keep an eye on myGov as Centrelink will contact you there if they need more info or once they’ve made a decision.
  • Experiencing delays? It’s worth understanding that you can only lodge a complaint if its been more than 13 weeks since Centrelink last took action. So if they sent you a request for information, then 13 weeks starts from when you provided what they asked for.
  • If you need more time to provide supplementary information that Centrelink has requested, you can ask for an extension.

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Where to next?

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[AD1] Advice provided by Aware Financial Services Australia Limited (ABN 86 003 742 756, AFSL 238430), wholly owned by Aware Super. 

[AD2] Members can get advice about their Aware Super accounts at no extra cost, or advice on their broader needs for a fee.