About the single or couple calculator
A couple’s payment is worked out on both people’s incomes, and the rates and limits are different for couples. If you’re starting or ending a relationship, this tool shows your payment both ways.
It looks at the income test only. Assets are tested too, and could lower your payment.
Common questions
Does a new partner change my Centrelink payment?
It can. Once you’re treated as a couple, your payment is assessed on your combined income, and the couple rate applies. You need to tell Services Australia within 14 days if your relationship changes.
Why is the couple rate lower for each person?
Couples share some costs, so each person’s rate is lower than a single person’s, though the combined total is higher than one single payment.
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Rates last checked 5 November 2026. Payment rates from 20 September 2026; limits from 1 July 2026.