A single mother from the Blue Mountains has shared how a quick phone call led her to a financial benefit that saved her more than $800 per year.
Alyce Verade’s Discovery
Alyce Verade, a 37-year-old mother of three, discovered an unexpected opportunity to save money when she found out that she was eligible for a refund on her car registration and licence fees, thanks to a Pensioner Concession Card offered through Centrelink.
Since December 2023, Verade, who receives the Single Parenting Payment, has held a Pensioner Concession Card. She learned about the potential for a refund during a casual chat with her hairdresser, who mentioned the benefit of Centrelink’s lesser-known assistance program.
Taking Action
Intrigued by the conversation, Verade decided to contact Services NSW to confirm her eligibility. To her surprise, she was told that she qualified for a refund on her $692 car registration fee and a partial refund of over $200 for her driver’s licence.
This brought her total savings to more than $800, a significant amount for Verade, who took to TikTok to share her story.
Verade shared that the process was quick and efficient: “They were so helpful. It was over and all done within 10 minutes,” she told Yahoo Finance. During the call, she only needed to provide her Centrelink number and the last transaction with Service NSW.
The Impact of Extra Cash
For Verade, this unexpected refund was a much-needed financial boost. With three children to care for, every bit of extra money helps cover their expenses.
In fact, for others who qualify, such refunds could significantly impact their financial situation, especially in covering rent or mortgage payments.
For example, an $800 annual refund could save around $29,555 over the life of a $640,000 home loan at an interest rate of 5.5%. For renters, the same refund would equate to roughly $40 in savings each week.
The Benefits of the Pensioner Concession Card
The Pensioner Concession Card offers Australians various benefits, such as discounts on medications and bulk-billed doctor visits.
In New South Wales, eligible cardholders can enjoy even more perks, including free car registration and driver’s licences.
Services such as motor vehicle tax, registration fees, stamp duty, and transfer fees are waived for Pensioner Concession Card holders in the state.
However, these benefits may vary depending on the state or territory. For instance:
- Victoria offers a 50% discount on motor vehicle registration fees for cardholders.
- In Queensland, similar concessions are available, reducing the overall cost of vehicle registration.
A simple phone call not only brought a significant financial advantage to Alyce Verade, but it also highlights a valuable resource available to those with the Pensioner Concession Card.
This benefit can provide a much-needed financial cushion for families and individuals, helping them manage their day-to-day expenses. It’s a reminder that sometimes, small actions can lead to big savings.
FAQs
What is the Pensioner Concession Card?
The Pensioner Concession Card is a benefit card issued by Centrelink, providing cardholders with various discounts and exemptions, including car registration, medicine, and bulk-billed doctor visits.
How do I apply for the Pensioner Concession Card?
You can apply for the Pensioner Concession Card through Centrelink if you meet the eligibility criteria, such as being a parenting payment recipient or a pensioner.
Are the benefits of the Pensioner Concession Card the same in every state?
No, benefits vary by state. For example, in New South Wales, cardholders can enjoy free car registration, while Victoria offers a 50% discount. Always check your local guidelines for specific benefits.