Demystifying the Income Tested Fee: A Simple Guide for Sunshine Coast Seniors

Starting a Home Care Package or preparing for the Support at Home changes from 1 July 2025? If so, you might’ve heard the term “Income Tested Fee” or ITF. It sounds technical, but it doesn’t have to be confusing. Let’s walk through what it means, who it applies to, and how it impacts your aged care support.

What Is the ITF and Why Does It Exist?

The Income Tested Fee is a contribution some people make toward their aged care services. It’s determined by Services Australia and is based solely on your income—not your assets. If you’re required to pay it, the government simply reduces their portion of your funding. The total value of your package doesn’t increase—the payment just comes from two sources: you and the government.

Will I Have to Pay?

If the ITF applies to you, you’ll receive a letter from Services Australia. This letter will clearly outline:

• Your daily ITF amount (this may be $0 if no payment is required)
• The Basic Daily Fee providers are permitted to charge (HCA does not charge this fee)

We recommend saving this letter and sharing it with your provider to ensure your care plan accurately reflects your financial setup.

How Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast Supports You

At Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast, we’re committed to pricing that’s fair and easy to understand. Here’s what we do differently:

• No Basic Daily Fee – We believe in value without hidden extras.
• Clear Fee Structure – Our Care and Package Management charges are a simple percentage of your overall package.
• We Handle ITF Collection – If you owe an ITF, we manage this securely on behalf of Services Australia.

Key Reminders:

• You’ll only pay an ITF if Services Australia confirms it in writing.
• This fee comes from your existing package—it doesn’t increase your available funds.
• Unpaid fees can build up over time, so share your letter with us as soon as you receive it.

Upcoming Changes with Support at Home

From July 2025, new rules will apply to how contributions are calculated. These will take into account both your pension status and your income. If you don’t share income details with Services Australia, you’ll be considered “means not disclosed” and be asked to contribute the maximum rate.

What Is the Contribution Income Assessment?

Services Australia assesses whether you’re required to contribute to your care. This applies to current Home Care Package clients and new Support at Home participants.

• You don’t need to complete this if you’re on a means-tested Centrelink payment like the Age Pension or DSP
• You do need to complete it if you’re a self-funded retiree or haven’t submitted recent income info

How to complete the assessment

To complete the assessment, you can either download and fill in the SA456 paper form or use the interactive SA486 PDF, which adjusts questions based on your answers. Once completed, post the form to Services Australia. You can find both forms on the Services Australia website under Aged Care forms.

Need a Helping Hand?

Navigating aged care fees and paperwork can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. At Home Care Assistance Sunshine Coast, our team is here to guide you—whether it’s understanding your Income Tested Fee, filling out forms, or planning your care. We’re just a phone call away and always happy to help. Reach out today and feel confident about your care journey.