John wants to know what benefits his friend is entitled to for caring for him.
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Q. John
I am a Vietnam veteran. I am totally and permanently incapacitated, and I receive a war pension. My friend is taking care of me. Is he entitled to a carer’s pension?
A. There are a range of rules regarding eligibility for a carer allowance relating to both your own situation and your carer’s situation.
Carers must be providing additional daily care and attention to someone because they either have a disability or severe illness or are frail aged. By the sound of things, it seems your friend meets the requirements for care.
But, in addition to this, he must also meet the requirements of the income test. To receive the Carer Allowance, he and his partner’s combined adjusted taxable income must be under $250,000 a year.
As well as meeting those requirements, the person receiving care must meet all of the following:
- score high enough on the Adult Disability Assessment Determination 2018 (ADAT)
- be likely to have the illness or disability for at least 12 months, unless it’s terminal
- get care from the carer in their home, the carer’s home or in hospital.
A Centrelink Financial Services officer will be able to explain whether your friend is eligible for the payment. He can contact an officer by calling 13 2300.
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