Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Income Limits 2026

Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: income limits from 20 September 2026

If you are over Age Pension age but do not qualify for the pension, the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) can still give you cheaper medicines under the PBS and other concessions. It has an income test but no assets test.

By FinForce · Published 31 October 2026 · Figures current at publication

Income limits from 20 September 2026

Single: under $105,048 a year.
Couple, combined: under $168,076 a year.
Couple separated by illness, respite care or prison: under $210,096 combined.
Add $639.60 for each child in your care.

What counts as income

Your adjusted taxable income, which includes reportable super contributions (such as salary sacrifice), reportable fringe benefits and net investment losses, plus deemed income on account-based pensions. Deeming uses the rates that rose on 20 September 2026: see deeming rates. Because there is no assets test, retirees with substantial assets but modest taxable income often qualify.

Why it matters

Cheaper PBS medicines.
Possible bulk-billed doctor visits (at the doctor's discretion).
State and local concessions, which vary.

Watch the timing

Starting a new account-based pension, or a jump in deeming rates, can change your assessed income. Check before you restructure: see pension drawdown rates and Age Pension and Centrelink advice.

Quick answers

What is the CSHC income limit from 20 September 2026?

$105,048 a year for singles and $168,076 for couples combined.

Is there an assets test for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card?

No. There is only an income test, which includes deemed income on account-based pensions.

Sources

General advice warning. This article is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Rules, rates and thresholds change; check the sources above. Consider the relevant PDS and our Financial Services Guide and seek personal advice before acting. FinForce is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 001241242) of Financial Force Pty Ltd, ABN 42 091 425 464, AFSL 238337.