jobseeker income
JobSeeker Income Test Calculator
Calculate how your income affects your JobSeeker payment.
How the Income Test Works
JobSeeker payments are subject to an income test. This means your payment may be reduced based on how much you earn from work or other income sources.
Current Income Test Thresholds (Updated September 2025)
🎉 UPDATED: JobSeeker base rates increased September 20, 2025. Calculator reflects latest payment rates!
Fortnightly Income Limits
- $150 - You can earn up to this amount per fortnight without affecting your payment
- Above $150 - Your payment reduces by 50 cents for every dollar earned
- Above $256 - Your payment reduces by 60 cents for every dollar earned
New JobSeeker Base Rates (September 20, 2025)
- Single (22+): $793.60/fortnight (+$12.50 increase)
- Single with children: $849.90/fortnight (+$13.40 increase)
- Partnered: $726.50/fortnight each (+$11.40 increase)
- Principal Carer: $1,027.70/fortnight (+$16.20 increase)
Partner Income Test
If you have a partner, their income may also affect your payment:
- Partner can earn up to $1,194 per fortnight before it affects your payment (updated)
- Above this amount, your payment reduces
Interactive Calculator
JobSeeker Payment Estimator
Your Estimated Payment
Additional Support Available:
- • Rent Assistance: Up to $389.40/fortnight
- • Health Care Card: Free/discounted healthcare
- • Energy Supplement: $14.10/fortnight
* Estimates based on maximum payment rates as of August 2025
* Actual payments depend on individual circumstances
* Income and partner income tests apply
For official calculations: Use the Payment and Service Finder or call Services Australia on 132 850
Important Information
What Counts as Income
- Wages and salary
- Self-employment income
- Investment income
- Other Centrelink payments
- Foreign pensions
- Compensation payments
What Doesn't Count
- Some exempt lump sum payments
- Some family assistance payments
- Certain compensation payments
Getting Help
For personalized advice about your JobSeeker payment:
- Services Australia: 132 850
- Online account: myGov
- Local service center: Find your nearest center online
JobSeeker Payment FAQ
Common questions about JobSeeker payment calculations and income testing
How much can I earn before my JobSeeker payment is affected?
You can earn up to $150 per fortnight without affecting your JobSeeker payment. Above $150, your payment reduces by 50 cents for every dollar earned up to $256, then 60 cents for every dollar above $256.
What are the current JobSeeker payment rates for 2025?
Current rates (September 2025): Single (22+) $793.60/fortnight, Single with children $849.90/fortnight, Partnered $726.50/fortnight each, Principal Carer $1,027.70/fortnight. These rates increased on September 20, 2025.
Does my partner's income affect my JobSeeker payment?
Yes, if your partner earns more than $1,194 per fortnight (updated rate), it may affect your JobSeeker payment. The partner income test applies in addition to your own income test.
What income types are counted in the JobSeeker income test?
Counted income includes wages, salary, self-employment income, investment income, other Centrelink payments, foreign pensions, and most compensation payments. Some exempt payments and family assistance are not counted.
Can I get additional support with JobSeeker Payment?
Yes, you may be eligible for Rent Assistance (up to $389.40/fortnight), Energy Supplement ($14.10/fortnight), and a Health Care Card for free or discounted healthcare and medicines.
How often do I need to report my income to Centrelink?
You must report your income every fortnight through myGov online services, the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app, or by calling the JobSeeker line on 132 850. Failure to report on time can result in payment delays or cancellation.
How to Calculate Your JobSeeker Payment
Step-by-step guide to calculating your estimated JobSeeker payment using income test rules
- Determine your base payment rate
- Calculate your income reduction
- Apply partner income test
- Calculate final payment
- Consider additional supplements
Payment rates current as of September 20, 2025. This calculator provides estimates only. For official calculations, contact Services Australia on 132 850 or use the Payment and Service Finder on their website.