Age Pension assets test
Age Pension assets test: what counts and why it matters.
A plain-English guide to the assets-test side of Age Pension planning for Australian households.
What the assets test is trying to measure
The assets test looks at the value of assessable assets and compares them with the relevant threshold for your relationship and homeowner status. If assessable assets are above the threshold, the estimated pension can reduce.
- Homeowner and non-homeowner thresholds are different.
- Couples and singles are assessed differently.
- The family home is usually treated differently from other assets.
- Super may be treated differently before and after Age Pension age.
RetireAI uses these inputs educationally so the report can flag where official checking may be needed.
Common assets to review
- Bank accounts and cash
- Shares and managed funds
- Cars, boats and caravans
- Household contents
- Investment properties
Home status matters
Whether you own your home or rent changes the relevant assets-test threshold.
Couples need both sides
For couples, household assets are generally considered together, so both people’s details matter.
Check official rules
Services Australia remains the official decision-maker. Treat this as preparation, not a decision.