The CSHC is targeted at self-funded retirees of age pension who do not qualify for an Age Pension because of assets or income levels.

To qualify for a CSHC a person must make a claim for the card, and meet the following criteria:

• Not be receiving an income support pension or benefit or a Department of Veterans Affairs service pension or income support supplement, and

• Be of age pension age, and

• Be living permanently in Australia and be:

• Australian citizen, or
• A holder of a permanent visa, or
• New Zealand citizen who arrived on a New Zealand passport.

• Available to newly arrived migrants after 104 weeks in Australia as an Australian resident or Special Category Visa holder (some exemptions may apply).

• Must be in Australia to retain card, or temporarily absent for not more than 13 weeks.

• Have an annual adjusted income of less than $50,000 for singles; $80,000 for couples (combined income); and $100,000 combined for couples separated by illness, respite care or prison. An amount of $639.60 per year is added for each dependent child. There is no assets test.

Disclaimer: This is not advice. Items herein are general comments only and do not constitute or convey advice per se. The information contained in this article is for guidance only and should not be relied upon without obtaining professional advice having regard to your specific circumstances.
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