Applying for the Age Pension

You can apply for the Age Pension through Services Australia. Your application can be made online, by phone, or by visiting a Centrelink office. Before you start the process, you’ll need to prepare your supporting documentation. At a minimum, you’ll need to provide your: 

-    Age 
-    Tax File Number 
-    Information of your relationship status i.e. are you single or part of a couple? 
-    Details of your income and assets.

If you plan to apply online, you should also set up your online MyGov and Centrelink accounts, making sure they are linked, and you have confirmed your identity. Services Australia has a guide to help you through the process of making a claiming online. 

If you can’t apply online, you can complete the application form or visit a Services Australia centre in-person.
 

When can you apply? 

There’s no need to wait until you turn 67. You can claim the Age Pension 13 weeks before your 67th birthday. Services Australia will write to you to let you know if you’re eligible to apply. Services Australia recommend that you apply as soon as you’re eligible because the process can take some time and can’t be completed until you have submitted all of your required documentation. 

Keep in mind that applications for the Age Pension can’t be backdated. So, if you wait until you’re age 70, for example, you might be missing out on three years of Age Pension payments.