As an Australian resident, you’ve probably heard of the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) and wondered how it impacts your finances. If you’re curious about whether you’re liable to pay it, or simply want to learn more about the implications, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the Medicare surcharge levy, including how the Medicare Surcharge Levy iSelect comparison tool can help you make an informed decision about your health insurance needs.
What is the Medicare Levy Surcharge?
The Medicare Levy Surcharge is a government-imposed tax designed to encourage individuals and families to take out private health insurance. By doing so, it aims to reduce the burden on Australia’s public healthcare system. The MLS is applied to Australian taxpayers who do not hold an appropriate level of private hospital cover and earn above a certain income threshold.
How is the Medicare Levy Surcharge calculated?
The MLS is calculated as a percentage of your taxable income. The percentage varies depending on your income level, with higher-income earners paying a higher rate. The income thresholds and surcharge rates for the 2021-2022 financial year are as follows:
- Singles: If your income is between $90,000 and $105,000, you’ll pay a surcharge of 1%. If your income is between $105,001 and $140,000, the surcharge is 1.25%. If your income is over $140,000, the surcharge is 1.5%.
- Families: If your combined income is between $180,000 and $210,000, you’ll pay a surcharge of 1%. If your combined income is between $210,001 and $280,000, the surcharge is 1.25%. If your combined income is over $280,000, the surcharge is 1.5%.
Keep in mind that these thresholds and rates are subject to change in future financial years, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest information from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
How can I avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge?
To avoid paying the MLS, you need to purchase an appropriate level of private hospital cover. The ATO considers hospital cover to be adequate if it has an excess of no more than $750 for singles or $1,500 for families and couples. It’s also important to note that extras cover or ambulance-only policies do not exempt you from the MLS.
To make the process of finding suitable health insurance easier, consider using the iSelect comparison tool. This tool enables you to compare different health insurance policies based on factors such as price, coverage, and excess, ultimately helping you find the right policy to avoid the MLS while meeting your healthcare needs.
What if I’m only without private hospital cover for part of the year?
If you’re without appropriate private hospital cover for only part of the year, the MLS will be applied proportionally to the number of days you were without cover. For instance, if you were without cover for 100 days in the financial year, you’ll pay the MLS for those 100 days only.
How does the Medicare Levy Surcharge affect low-income earners?
The MLS is designed to primarily target middle-to-high-income earners who do not hold private hospital cover. Low-income earners are generally exempt from the surcharge, as the income thresholds are set at levels that do not affect them. Additionally, low-income earners may be eligible for the private health insurance rebate, which can help offset the cost of private health insurance premiums.
In conclusion, understanding the Medicare Levy Surcharge and its impact on your finances is crucial for Australian residents. By being well-informed about your potential liability and the various implications, you can make better decisions regarding your health insurance needs. Utilizing tools like the iSelect comparison tool can significantly aid in making an informed choice and ensure you’re adequately covered while minimizing any unnecessary expenses.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.