JobSeeker Payment Rates Australia 2026
Compare current maximum basic rates, the conditional over-55 rate, indicative personal-income cut-offs and hard asset limits.
| Situation | Maximum basic rate |
|---|---|
| Single, no dependent children | $808.70/fn |
| Single, dependent child or principal carer | $866.00/fn |
| Single, age 55+ after 9 continuous months | $866.00/fn |
| Single, partial capacity to work 0–14 hours | $866.00/fn |
| Single, exempt principal carer | $1,047.30/fn |
| Partnered each eligible person | $740.30/fn |
Rates effective 20 March 2026. Amounts shown are maximum basic rates before means testing.
These are maximum basic rates before income reductions. Energy Supplement, Pharmaceutical Allowance and Rent Assistance are not all included in every row.
The higher 55+ rate has a nine-month condition
| Situation | Maximum personal income |
|---|---|
| Single, no children | $1,530.17/fn |
| Single, with children — not principal carer | $1,626.84/fn |
| Single, 55+ after 9 months or partial capacity | $1,638.50/fn |
| Single principal carer | $2,356.25/fn |
| Single exempt principal carer | $2,815.75/fn |
| Partnered — own-income test | $1,414.67/fn |
Rates effective 1 July 2026 guide. Indicative cut-offs can move with supplements and personal circumstances.
For the taper mechanics, read the JobSeeker income cut-off guide. Use the calculator for your own Working Credit and partner-income position.
| Situation | Hard asset limit |
|---|---|
| Single homeowner | $333,000 |
| Single non-homeowner | $600,000 |
| Couple combined — homeowner | $499,000 |
| Couple combined — non-homeowner | $766,000 |
Rates effective 1 July 2026. Allowance assets limits are hard cut-offs, not taper starting points.
The allowance assets test is a hard cut-off. The principal home is generally excluded, while other assessable assets owned by you and your partner can count.
What is the current JobSeeker rate for a single person?
Do all JobSeeker recipients over 55 get the higher rate?
How much can I earn before JobSeeker reduces?
Are the JobSeeker income cut-offs exact?
Does my home count under the JobSeeker assets test?
A positive estimate does not establish a payment start date. Check JobSeeker waiting periods and confirm the final decision with Services Australia.
Tax Accuracy & Sources
Current-rate reference only. Rates shown are maximum basic amounts; Energy Supplement, Pharmaceutical Allowance, Rent Assistance, Working Credits, partner income, waiting periods and other eligibility rules can change the amount paid.