Couples income makes it advantageous to stop the non-qualified partner rate

When a couple get the grandparented non-qualified partner rate of Veteran's Pension, combined income above the viability amount of $41,081.49 (as at 1 April 2026) will reduce the rate to less than the amount that would be paid to the qualified partner in their own right.

A decision on whether to continue getting the grandparented non-qualified partner rate must be made by the qualifying partner only.

Before a decision is made the qualifying partner must be given the following information to help them decide:

• the couple can continue getting the grandparented non-qualified partner rate even though it is less than the qualified partner would get without a partner included. This will keep the grandparented non-qualified partner status
• whether the income is likely to reduce below the viability amount in the future - they could continue with the reduced rate until their income reduces
• if the qualified partner chooses to cancel the grandparented non-qualified partner rate they will not be able to apply for it in the future
• the grandparented non-qualified partner will only have the option of applying for a main benefit which is paid at a lower amount, is income tested and paid at a half married rate
• the grandparented non-qualified partner will not be able to continue using their SuperGold Card
• the overseas absence provisions for main benefits are more limited than they are for Veteran's Pension

The qualifying partner must decide whether to cancel or continue with the grandparented non-qualified partner rate.