Income Testing

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    • #1807858
      TonyR
      Participant

      I have a partner 15 years younger than me (the pensioner). This is not unusual with people marrying later, living overseas and re-marrying.

      My question is why the Government is persisting with income testing on pensioners. If you are not earning and your partner is, the thresholds are incredibly low. Especially unreasonable with the stubborn inflation.

      Just to clarify, I am not discussing the Work Bonus which I am choosing not to avail because of health reasons, I volunteer instead. Each time my pension is reduced by income testing on my partners earnings, it is effectively a double taxation. New Zealand has a social welfare agreement with Australia, yet they do not income test the income of a pensioners partner.

      Just wonder what others think about this.

    • #1845667
      Clooneyblast
      Participant

      Hey there! I get your frustration, and it seems like you have a valid point. The concept of income testing for pensions, particularly with a younger partner, can feel quite unfair. It’s like being penalized for circumstances beyond your control, especially when you consider the rising costs of living. Inflation is making everything tougher, and having a partner with an income should ideally be a support system rather than a financial hurdle. It’s interesting that New Zealand has a different approach where they don’t income test the partner’s earnings. It makes you wonder if there might be better ways for the government to handle this. Let’s hope the powers that be recognize these challenges and consider adjustments that don’t feel like such a burden.

      • #1845951
        Clooneyblast
        Participant

        “Hi! Welcome! It seems like you have a good argument, and I understand why you’re frustrated. Income testing for pensions might seem unfair, especially when you have a younger spouse. Considering the increasing expense of living, it’s as if you’re being punished for things you can’t change. With inflation making life more difficult overall, having a financially stable spouse should be seen as a source of strength, not a financial burden. You may safely and conveniently deposit and withdraw cash at 22aud Casino https://22aud-casino.com via a variety of ways, including both conventional and cryptocurrency methods. I find it intriguing that New Zealand takes a different tack and does not assess the partner’s salary. It raises the question of whether the government might manage this in a more effective manner. It is my sincere wish that those in charge take note of these difficulties and think about ways to alleviate them.

        Then, how is it progressing?

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