As retirement approaches, managing everyday expenses — especially health-care costs — becomes increasingly important. If you’re not eligible for the Age Pension, the CSHC offers a strong alternative in 2025. This card is designed specifically for self-funded retirees who meet the criteria, and it can unlock access to discounted PBS medicines, bulk-billed GP visits (where available), and a variety of utility and transport concessions.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the CSHC in 2025—including the latest eligibility requirements, how to apply online, and how to manage your card once approved. Whether you’re preparing for retirement or already there, understanding the benefits of this government-issued card can help ease financial stress and improve your quality of life.
Australia Commonwealth Seniors Health Card 2025
The Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) in 2025 offers self-funded retirees key benefits like cheaper PBS medicines, bulk-billed GP visits, and discounts on utilities and transport. With no assets test and an easy online application, it’s a smart option for those not eligible for the Age Pension.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Age | Must be at least 67 years (Age Pension age) |
| Residency | Must be an Australian resident living in Australia |
| Income Thresholds | – Singles: Less than $99,025/year – Couples (combined): Less than $158,440/year – Separated due to illness: Less than $198,050/year – Additional: $639.60/year for each dependent child |
| Assets Test | Not applicable (only income is assessed) |
| Benefits | – Cheaper PBS medicines – Bulk-billed GP visits (subject to availability) – Discounts on utilities, council rates, and public transport (varies by state) |
| Application Process | – Create a myGov account – Link it to Centrelink – Apply online – Submit all required documents |
| Official Website | Services Australia – Commonwealth Seniors Health Card |
Who Should Apply for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card in 2025?
To be eligible for the 2025 Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, you must meet the following conditions:
Age Requirement
- Must be at least 67 years old (Age Pension age as of July 2023)
Residency Criteria
- Must be living in Australia and hold one of the following statuses:
- Australian citizen
- Permanent visa holder
- New Zealand citizen living in Australia on a Special Category Visa
Income Test
You must fall under the following Current Income Thresholds:
| Household Type | Maximum Income (per year) |
|---|---|
| Single | $101,105 p.a. |
| Couple (combined) | $161,768 p.a. |
| Couple (separated by illness/respite) | $202,210 p.a. |
Income includes:
- Taxable income
- Net investment losses
- Reportable super contributions
- Foreign income
- Employer-provided benefits
Other Administrative Requirements
- You must supply your Tax File Number (and your partner’s, unless exempt).
- You must meet identity requirements and provide supporting documents about your income, residency, and identity
No Government Support Payments
You must not be receiving any payments like:
- Age Pension
- Service Pension (DVA)
- Any other income support from Centrelink or the DVA
Adjusted Taxable Income & Deemed Income Explained
Adjusted Taxable Income (ATI)
Your ATI includes:
- Taxable income
- Investment losses
- Reportable fringe benefits
- Foreign income (even if tax-exempt)
- Superannuation contributions
- Tax-free pensions
Deemed Income from Investments
- Any account-based income streams or investments are deemed to earn 2.25% annually once they pass:
- $60,400 for singles
- $100,200 for couples
How to Apply for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card 2025
Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of the online application process:
- Go to my.gov.au and create or log in to your myGov account.
- Once logged in, click on “View & link services” and select “Centrelink.”
- If you don’t have a Customer Reference Number (CRN), you’ll need to complete identity verification.
- After linking Centrelink, go to “Make a claim” → “Concession Cards” → “Apply for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.”
- Fill in the application form with accurate details such as:
- Your age and date of birth
- Income and financial information
- Residency and identity details
- Partner’s details (if applicable)
- Upload supporting documents like:
- Tax returns or income statements
- Superannuation statements
- Bank and investment account details
- Residency or visa proof
- Driver’s licence or Medicare card
- Submit your claim once everything is complete.
- Track your application status through myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.
- Be aware that income thresholds are indexed every year on 20 September, so ensure your income details are correct for the relevant financial year.
Benefits of Holding a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
1. Discounted Prescription Medicines: Get cheaper medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
2. Bulk-Billed Doctor Visits: Some GPs offer no-gap billing, reducing your healthcare expenses.
3. Utility & Rates Concessions
Depending on your state, you may get discounts on:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Council rates
4. Public Transport Discounts: Enjoy cheaper fares on trains, buses, and ferries (check with your state provider).
5. Reduced Ambulance Fees: Some states offer free or discounted emergency transport services to cardholders.
Who Should Consider Applying for the CSHC?
You should consider applying if you:
- Have reached Age Pension age (e.g., around 67) but do not receive the Age Pension or other income-support payment.
- Are a self-funded retiree or have other income (super, investments, part-time work) but fall under the income thresholds.
- Live in Australia and meet residency conditions.
- Want to reduce your everyday living costs — especially medical, utilities and transport — via available concessions.
Even if you’re working into retirement or drawing down your super, you may still qualify (provided you meet the income test). Many retirees assume they’re ineligible (for example because they still earn income), but the card may still be available
What Is the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card?
The CSHC is a concession card issued by the Australian Government for older Australians who:
- Have reached Age Pension age
- Are not in receipt of an income-support payment from Services Australia or Department of Veterans’ Affairs
- Meet an income-test under “adjusted taxable income” (ATI) plus any “deemed income” from account-based pensions. Services Australia+2Allianz Retire Plus+2
Key features:
Additional concessions for utilities, transport, property rates — depending on your state or territory
How the CSHC Can Help You Cut Medical and Living Costs
- No assets test (unlike the Age Pension) — only income is assessed.
- Access to cheaper prescription medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
- Potential bulk-billing by your GP (where offered)
The Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) is a concession card offered by the Australian Government to help older Australians reduce everyday living costs. It is specifically designed for self-funded retirees who don’t qualify for the Age Pension but meet the income requirements.
With the CSHC, eligible seniors can access:
- Cheaper prescription medicines through the PBS
- Bulk-billed GP visits (if accepted by the doctor)
- Concessions on utility bills, public transport, and council rates (varies by state)
Managing Your Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
After receiving your CSHC, it’s important to keep your information up to date. You must notify Services Australia within 14 days if:
- Your income changes
- Your name or address changes
- You return to work
- You stop lodging tax returns
- You plan to leave Australia
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card in 2025?
Yes, if you’re 67 or older, live in Australia, have income below the set limits, and don’t receive Centrelink or DVA payments. You’ll get access to cheaper medicines, bulk-billed GP visits, and other concessions.
What is Adjusted Taxable Income and Deemed Income for the CSHC in 2025?
Adjusted Taxable Income (ATI) includes your taxable income, investment losses, fringe benefits, foreign income, super contributions, and some tax-free pensions. Deemed income is the estimated return of 2.25% annually from investments over $60,400 (singles) or $100,200 (couples), used to assess eligibility.
How do I apply online for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card in 2025?
Create a myGov account and link it to Centrelink. Then, go to “Make a Claim” → “Concession Cards” → “Apply for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.” Upload supporting documents like income proof, ID, and residency details. You can track your application via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
What should I do after receiving my Commonwealth Seniors Health Card?
You must update Services Australia within 14 days if your income, name, address, or work status changes, if you stop lodging tax returns, or if you’re leaving Australia.
What if I lose my Commonwealth Seniors Health Card?
You can request a replacement online through myGov or by visiting a Services Australia office. Delivery usually takes up to one week.
What if I apply and then my income increases?
If your income exceeds the threshold in a review period, your card may be cancelled or you may lose eligibility. It’s important to update your circumstances promptly.
Does this card replace the Age Pension or other concession cards?
Not exactly. The card is for those who don’t receive the Age Pension (or other income-support payment) and meet the eligibility. If you already receive the Age Pension you typically hold the Pensioner Concession Card which may provide equal or greater benefits.
