It can be challenging to navigate through Centrelink. The demand for Centrelink support is enormous, and finding the information you need online, over the phone, or in-person can be challenging and stressful.
Not knowing how the system works can be distressing, mainly because Centrelink is so severe about compliance. It’s critical to notify them if your situation or income changes.
What effect does having an NDIS plan — or being in the process of getting one — have on your Centrelink payments? Is there a link between the NDIS and Centrelink? We’ve put together an easy-to-understand guide regarding Centrelink payments for people with an NDIS plan to assist you in this matter.
How do income tests for Centrelink payments work?
Centrelink distributes a variety of different payments. For example, income support payments are available to assist people with their living expenses. The following are examples of income support payments:
- Age Pension
- Austudy
- Disability Support Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Partner Allowance
To obtain full Centrelink payments, your income must be less than a particular amount and pass an asset limit test. If you make more than a specific amount of money every fortnight at a job, your JobSeeker payment will start to be reduced.
Will NDIS support payments reduce payments from Centrelink?
NDIS support payments are not counted as income by Centrelink. The NDIS was created to assist people with disabilities in obtaining the support they want. This includes the following:
- Getting them the help they need to be socially and economically self-sufficient.
- Support in a reasonable and necessary manner.
- Allow them to make their own decisions and achieve their own goals.
Because NDIS payments are only given for very particular reasons, they are not considered income and will not impact Centrelink’s income support payments. The NDIS support payments are tax-free and do not qualify as income for calculating Child Support Benefit.
Will NDIS support payments be reduced because of Centrelink payments?
A person must fill out an Access Request Form — either verbally or in writing — to set up a plan with the NDIS. An Access Request Form does not inquire about your financial situation. The NDIS is not a means-tested scheme, and being on Centrelink will not lower a person’s NDIS benefits.
If you have an NDIS plan, can you get Mobility Allowance from Centrelink?
When the NDIS was first established, it replaced 17 Commonwealth programs. The Mobility Allowance was one of these initiatives. However, qualified people who do not have an NDIS plan can still get Mobility Allowance. It’s a direct payment from Centrelink to persons who meet the following criteria:
- Are at least 16 years of age
- Are disabled
- Require assistance using public transportation
- Are using public transportation for authorised activities such as school, work, training, or job hunting
The Mobility Allowance is not available to people who have an NDIS plan, and this is because the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will pay for these transportation needs.
Will you be able to keep your Health Care Card if you’re an NDIS participant?
The Health Care Card is a Centrelink concession card that allows people to buy cheaper medicines. It can also cut the cost of products in some states and territories, like:
- Utility bills
- Public transportation tickets
- Registration of automobiles
Many private businesses also provide discounts to customers who have a valid Health Care Card. People enrolled in the NDIS can keep their Centrelink Health Care Card.
What’s the most efficient way to manage Centrelink and NDIS support?
NDIS funds can only be used for a limited number of services. These services include help with:
- Everyday activities
- Household chores
- Community Access
- Travel and transport arrangements
- Nursing care and health requirements
Many Centrelink funds, on the other hand, are for general use. Payments can be withdrawn from a bank account and spent at will unless they are provided using a cashless debit card.
The easiest method to keep track of your Centrelink and NDIS benefits is to ensure you’re on the proper NDIS plan. As a result, you won’t have to spend your Centrelink payments on the things that the NDIS can cover. Then, a reputable disability support provider, such as Ebenezer Mission, can ensure that you receive the best possible care.
At Ebenezer Mission, we are dedicated to providing the best care possible. Learn more about the services that we can offer as part of your NDIS plan.
