$987 Jobseeker Payment For Unemployed Australians In 2024: Know Eligibility

In 2024, Australians facing unemployment may receive a financial boost through Centrelink’s updated Jobseeker Payment, including an increase to $987 for eligible individuals.

This payment, managed by Services Australia, is designed to help unemployed citizens and those under financial strain cope with rising living costs.

Let’s dive into the details of the payment increase, eligibility criteria, and the application process.

Payment Increase Details

Starting in 2024, Centrelink is set to increase the Jobseeker Payment, with single principal carers receiving $987.70 every two weeks.

This payment aims to alleviate financial stress for individuals who are actively looking for work or unable to work due to health reasons.

The Jobseeker Payment will also see increases for other categories:

• A single person without children will receive $786.80 every two weeks, up from $762.70.
• Australians aged 55 and above, after nine months on Jobseeker, will receive $816.90 every two weeks.
• Single principal carers, such as foster parents, will get the $987.70 rate.

The increase aims to provide financial relief, especially as living costs and inflation continue to rise.

For many, these payments will be crucial in covering basic needs like housing, food, and healthcare while they seek employment.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the $987 Jobseeker Payment in 2024, applicants need to meet specific criteria related to age, income, and residency.

1. Age Requirement: You must be aged between 22 and the pension age (67 for most Australians).
2. Income and Assets: Your eligibility depends on your income and the value of your assets, including those of your partner if you have one. If your income exceeds a certain threshold, your payment amount may be reduced or disqualified.
3. Residency: You must be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or meet certain visa requirements.
4. Employment Status: You should be unemployed, underemployed, or unable to work due to health reasons. You also need to meet mutual obligation requirements, which include actively searching for work and attending required appointments.
5. Exemptions: Not all claimants receive the full $987 payment. Only those exempt from mutual obligations, such as single parents who are primary caregivers, may qualify for this amount.

Payment Schedule for 2024

The Jobseeker Payment is generally disbursed every two weeks, though payments may arrive earlier if a public holiday falls on the usual payment date.

For instance, those eligible for the $987.70 allowance will receive a bi-weekly payment, totaling $1,975.40 per month.

For the most accurate payment dates, it’s best to visit the official Services Australia website or access your payment schedule through your myGov account.

How to Apply for the $987 Jobseeker Payment

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the Jobseeker Payment in 2024:

1. Create a myGov Account: If you don’t have a myGov account, create one and link it to Centrelink.
2. Access Your Account: Log in to myGov and navigate to Centrelink services.
3. Fill Out the Application: Choose the Jobseeker Payment form, and complete it with all required information, including personal details, financial status, and employment information.
4. Submit Required Documents: Provide documentation such as proof of income, assets, identity, and, if applicable, medical certificates or job search records.
5. Monitor Your Application: Once submitted, Centrelink will assess your application. You’ll receive a notification if it’s approved, detailing your payment start date and amount.

First-time applicants should expect their first payment approximately two weeks after their application is approved. You can also check your application status and payment schedule through your myGov account.

Fact Check on the $987 Payment

The increase to $987 is part of the Australian Government’s ongoing efforts to adjust payments to match inflation and the rising cost of living.

It’s crucial to note that not all Jobseeker claimants qualify for this amount; it’s only available to those exempt from certain requirements, such as single parents who are principal carers.

For the most current information, regularly check the official Services Australia website or announcements regarding Jobseeker Payments. Any changes in the amount or eligibility criteria will be reflected there.

Additional Support

In addition to the Jobseeker Payment, eligible Australians can explore other forms of support:

• Youth Allowance: For young people between the ages of 16 and 24 who are studying or looking for work.
• Disability Support Pension: For those with a permanent disability preventing them from working.
• Supplementary Allowances: Depending on your situation, you may qualify for rent assistance, energy supplements, or other financial aid.

Staying informed about these programs and your eligibility can help ensure you receive the full range of support available to you.

The $987 Jobseeker Payment for 2024 is a vital support system for Australians facing financial hardship. While it won’t solve all challenges, it offers crucial financial assistance for those struggling to make ends meet in a difficult economy.

FAQs