Can travelling affect your pension?
If you receive an age pension and you want to travel, there’s some information that you should know before you set off on your trip to ensure the stability of your pension.
Travelling within Australia
If you choose to travel only nationally, remaining in Australia, your pension generally won’t be affected. The only exception is if you’re renting your home or earning a casual income whilst away. In this case, you should inform Centrelink of said changes.
Travelling overseas
If you’re travelling internationally, things get a bit more complicated. Generally, you can continue to receive your pension whilst away, but the amount you receive may be affected by your travels.
Once you’ve been out of Australia for at least six weeks, your pension will be lessened to the basic amount and your concession card will lose validity whilst away. However, upon re-entering Australia, it will be reactivated.
Additionally, once you’re away from Australia for more than 26 weeks, the amount you receive may be further reduced unless you worked in Australia for at least 35 years.
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