Seniors Cards – help you may be surprised by
Cost of living is hurting so many and looking at where you can cut back or get some help can be difficult. I’ve found out talking to some of the older community that they aren’t aware of some benefits they are entitled to, so I’ve included some information in this column.
With a Queensland Seniors Card you can access a range of discounts, including for concessional registration on a vehicle or boat. This is not only for pensioner, but self-funded retirees on limited income.
So, who is eligible? If you are 60-64 you can get a Seniors Card if you work less than 35 hours per week in paid employment and hold a commonwealth concession card. Or, when you turn 65 and work less than 35 hours per week that’s all you need to be eligible for one of the three available seniors cards.
The income threshold has also increased for Commonwealth Seniors Healthcare Card up to $90,000 income for singles and up to $144,000 combined income for couples. These limits only changed in November last year. These changes were long overdue and will greatly assist more people, particularly low-income self-funded retirees.
To apply for the Commonwealth Seniors Healthcare Card, go to: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/who-can-get-commonwealth-seniors-health-card?context=21966
There is also a Senior Shopper Card, which is based on voluntary discounts from business and has less criteria to access. The Senior Shopper phone-shopping service that helps all Seniors Card holders to get the best price/discounts on a range of electrical goods, travel, motor vehicles, computers, mowers, power tools, furniture, white goods, lawn bowls gear, fishing tackle, pools, cameras and more. For more information about this service go to: https://www.qld.gov.au/seniors/legal-finance-concessions/seniors-card/senior-shopper
So, if you think you are eligible and haven’t applied yet, now is the time to apply. You just might be surprised to see how much you are missing out on. Money is tight, don’t be afraid to get out there and see what discounts and financial support you might be entitled to.
To apply go to: https://www.qld.gov.au/seniors/legal-finance-concessions/seniors-card/applying-seniors-card or if you would like a paper copy application don’t hesitate to contact my office and we will post one to you.
As always, don’t hesitate to contact me if there is anything that I can be of assistance with.