Many people assume that once they start drawing on their super, there is a limit on how much they can earn from part-time or casual work. For self-funded retirees, that is generally not the case.

Can You Work While Drawing On Super?

If you are not receiving the Age Pension or another means-tested government payment, there is usually no cap on how much employment income you can earn simply because you are also receiving income from super.

Any wages you earn are still taxed in the usual way, but receiving super benefits does not automatically restrict your ability to keep working.

When Can You Access Your Super?

The more important question is whether you have met a condition of release that allows you to access your super in the first place.

For example, many people can access their super once they reach age 65, regardless of whether they are still working. People aged between 60 and 64 may also be able to access their super if they have retired or met another condition of release.

Combining Work & Retirement Income

For many people over 60, super benefits paid from a taxed super fund are generally tax-free, while any salary or wages they earn continue to be taxed under the normal income tax rules.

This can give retirees more flexibility than they may realise. Some people choose to keep working a few days a week while drawing an income from super, rather than retiring completely.

If you are thinking about returning to work, reducing your hours or combining employment income with super, it is worth checking how the rules apply to your circumstances before making any changes.