Disability Support Pension (under 21) income test 2026
How much you can earn before Disability Support Pension (under 21) reduces, and how fast it tapers above the free area.
| Fortnightly income | Effect on your payment |
|---|---|
| Up to $226 | No reduction (this is the income free area) |
| $226 and above | Reduces by 50c for each dollar over $226 |
Source: Services Australia, A guide to Australian Government payments (CO029), 1 July 2026 edition — Income test for pensions (youth rates); limits from DSS Social Security Payment Parameters, 1 July 2026
| Situation | Payment reduces to nil at |
|---|---|
| Single — Dependent — Aged under 18 — At home | $1,414.80 /fortnight |
| Single — Dependent — Aged 18 or over — At home | $1,543.20 /fortnight |
| Single — Independent — Aged under 18 — Away from home | $1,937.80 /fortnight |
| Single — Independent — Aged 18 or over — Away from home | $1,937.80 /fortnight |
| Couple (combined) | $3,805.60 /fortnight |
This payment's income test counts deemed income from your financial assets, not just the income you actually receive.
The income test has a fortnightly income free area. You can have income up to that amount before your payment reduces. Above the free area, your payment reduces as your income rises, the same as the adult pension income test.
For a young person treated as dependent, the income limits are set at the level shown in the income test table for their age band. Financial assets are assessed using deeming.
The income limits for each age band and living situation are shown in the income test table on this page.
More on Disability Support Pension (under 21)
- Disability Support Pension (under 21) overviewRate, tests and calculator
- Full rate tableEvery variant
- Assets testLimits and free areas
Estimates and general information only — not financial advice. Check Services Australia for your circumstances.
Rates current as of 1 January 2026. Source: DSS / Services Australia. Last checked 17 July 2026.