Client becomes sick
If a Veterans Pension client or grandparented non qualified partner becomes sick, injured or disabled they can continue to receive Veterans Pension. Transferring the client (or partner) to another benefit would usually financially disadvantage them.
Veterans Pension clients are entitled to the full rate of Veterans Pension if they are hospitalised.
If the partner of a Veterans Pension client is admitted to hospital their rate of payment is reduced if the veteran has a War Disablement Pension rating of less than 70%, or has a Whole Body Impairment rating of less than 52%.
Exception
Where a grandparented non qualified partner cannot work due to health condition, injury or disability they may qualify for Jobseeker Support or Supported Living Payment.
Due to the different income reductions and exemptions that apply it may mean the client and partner are financially better off if the:
- client receives the married or civil union person rate of Veterans Pension and
- partner receives Jobseeker Support or Supported Living Payment at the half married or civil union rate
You will need to advise the client and partner of:
- benefit rates
- the effect of income (income reduction and any exemptions) and
- benefit obligations
The client and partner must make the final decision on which benefit they receive after being given all relevant information.
For more information see:
