For Australians living with a disability, illness, or injury, the Disability Support Pension (DSP) provides essential financial support. Claiming DSP can be a complex process, but with the right information and preparation, it becomes more manageable. This guide walks you through every step, ensuring you understand eligibility, required documents, the application process, and available support.
Understanding the Disability Support Pension
The Disability Support Pension is designed for people whose ability to work is significantly limited due to a medical condition. To be eligible, applicants must meet specific medical, residency, and income criteria. The payment rate varies based on individual circumstances, including whether you are single, partnered, or have dependents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming DSP
1. Get Ready to Claim
Before starting your application, it’s wise to assess whether you’re eligible and if DSP is the right support for you. Services Australia provides a DSP pre-claim guide to help with this decision. The most convenient way to claim is online through your myGov account linked to Centrelink. If you have a nominee—someone who acts on your behalf—they can also apply for you online, provided they have their own myGov and Centrelink accounts1.
If you’re about to turn 16, you can start your claim up to 13 weeks before your birthday. You may need to prove your identity before starting your claim. Advocacy services are available if you need help at any stage of the process1.
2. Gather Required Documents
Supporting documents are crucial for your DSP claim. You’ll need to provide medical evidence that details your condition, its impact on your life, and how it affects your ability to work. Other supporting documents may include proof of identity, residency status, and financial information. If you don’t provide all requested documents, your claim may be delayed or rejected1.
If your employment status changes—such as stopping work or shifting from full-time to casual—you may need to provide an Employment Separation Certificate1.
3. Make Your Claim
Online Claim Process
If you have a myGov account linked to Centrelink, follow these steps:
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Sign in to myGov.
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Select “Go to Centrelink.”
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Choose “Make a claim or view claim status,” then “Make a claim.”
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Under “Disabled, ill or injured,” select “Get started” and follow the prompts to complete your claim1.
Claiming by Form
If you can’t claim online, you can complete a paper form. Ensure you fill out all sections and attach the required documents before submitting1.
4. Track Your Claim
After submitting your claim online, you’ll receive a receipt with your claim ID, submission date, and an estimated completion date. You can track your claim’s progress by signing in to myGov and selecting “Make a claim or view claim status.” The Express Plus Centrelink mobile app also allows you to monitor your claim1.
If Services Australia needs more information or you need to attend an assessment, they will contact you directly.
5. Support While Your Claim Is Assessed
While your DSP claim is being processed, you may be eligible for other income support payments. You can claim these separately or, in some cases, as part of your DSP online claim. If you’re already receiving another income support payment, you won’t need to meet mutual obligation requirements during the DSP assessment period1.
6. Claim Outcome
You’ll be notified of your claim outcome by letter. If your claim is unsuccessful, you’ll be informed of the reasons and given options to appeal or request a review. If successful, you’ll be told when your first payment will be made and the amount you’ll receive1.
What to Do If Your Claim Is Unsuccessful
If your DSP claim is denied, you can contact the Disability, Sickness and Carers line to discuss the decision. If you still disagree, you can request a review. Advocacy services are available to help you through this process1.
Specifications Table: Disability Support Pension Claim Process
| Step | What You Need to Do | Key Requirements/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Get Ready | Use pre-claim guide, set up myGov/Centrelink accounts | Identity proof, nominee if needed |
| 2. Gather Documents | Collect medical evidence, ID, residency, financial info | All documents must be provided |
| 3. Make Claim | Apply online or by form | Complete all sections, attach documents |
| 4. Track Claim | Use myGov or Express Plus app | Monitor progress, respond to requests |
| 5. Support | Claim other income support if eligible | No mutual obligation during DSP assessment |
| 6. Outcome | Receive decision by letter | Appeal options if unsuccessful |
FAQs
Q: Can I claim DSP before I turn 16?
A: Yes, you can start your claim up to 13 weeks before your 16th birthday1.
Q: What if I can’t claim online?
A: You can complete a paper form and submit it with all required documents1.
Q: What happens if my claim is rejected?
A: You can request a review or appeal the decision by contacting the Disability, Sickness and Carers line1.