Ultimate Guide: How to Obtain a Medicare Entitlement Statement in Australia

Navigating the Australian tax system can be challenging, especially for international students and temporary residents. One crucial aspect is understanding how to claim a Medicare levy exemption. To do this, you need a Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES). This detailed guide will help you through the process of obtaining an MES, ensuring you can claim your Medicare levy exemption on your tax return.

What is a Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES)?

A Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES) is a document that confirms you are not entitled to Medicare benefits during a specified period. This statement is necessary for international students and temporary residents to claim an exemption from the Medicare levy.

How to Apply for a Medicare Entitlement Statement

There are two primary methods to apply for an MES: online using myGov or by filling out a form.

Method 1: Apply Online Using MyGov

Step 1: Link the Individual Healthcare Identifiers (IHI) Service to MyGov

1. Sign in to MyGov: Go to the myGov website and sign in to your account.

2. View and Link Services: Select 'View and link services.'

3. Link IHI Service: Click 'Link' on the Individual Healthcare Identifier service tile.

4. Create or Link IHI: Choose 'I have an IHI' to link the service to your myGov account, or select 'I need an IHI' to apply for one and then link the service.

Step 2: Provide Identification

You will need to provide personal details and information from one of these identity documents:

• Your passport with a valid Australian Visa

• Your Australian driver licence

Make sure to have one of these documents handy before proceeding.

Step 3: Apply for MES

Once your IHI service is linked, you can access the MES dashboard to:

• Track the progress of your application

• Upload necessary documents

• Download and print your statements

If you opt to receive letters in your myGov Inbox, you'll be notified whenever there’s an update on your MES dashboard.

Method 2: Apply Using a Form

If you prefer to apply using a form, follow these steps:

1. Download the MES Application Form: Save the form to your device.

2. Complete the Form: Fill out the relevant questions digitally or by hand.

3. Save Changes: Ensure all changes are saved if completed digitally.

4. Upload to MyGov: Upload the completed form and supporting documents to your myGov account.

Required Supporting Documents

You may need to provide copies of any of the following documents:

• Your current visa

• A letter from the Department of Home Affairs showing the date your application for permanent residency was received

• A letter from the Department of Home Affairs showing the date your application for permanent residency was either granted, refused, or withdrawn

• A letter from the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, Federal Court, or High Court showing you appealed a refused application for permanent residency, or proof of ministerial intervention request

• Your European Health Insurance Card or other proof of health insurance

Submission Options for Supporting Documents

If you cannot upload the documents to myGov, you can either:

• Email them to: mes@servicesaustralia.gov.au

• Post them to: Services Australia Medicare Entitlement Statement Unit GPO Box 9822 Adelaide SA 5001

Understanding and obtaining a Medicare Entitlement Statement (MES) is crucial for international students and temporary residents aiming to claim a Medicare levy exemption. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure a smooth application process. For more assistance, consider reaching out to Precent Tax & Accounting Services for personalized guidance.