Applying for Old Age Living Allowance (OALA)
The Old Age Living Allowance (OALA) provides a monthly cash allowance to elderly Hong Kong residents aged 65 or above who have limited financial means. Learn how to apply.
Overview
The Old Age Living Allowance (OALA) is a social security allowance provided by the Social Welfare Department (SWD) to elderly persons in Hong Kong who have financial need. It is not a means-tested allowance in the strict sense — unlike CSSA, it uses a more relaxed financial assessment.
There are two tiers: the normal rate and the higher rate, depending on the applicant's assets and income. The higher rate is for those who have passed a more stringent means test.
As of recent rates, the normal allowance is around HK$2,985 per month, and the higher rate is around HK$3,985 per month.
Who Can Apply
To be eligible for OALA you must:
- Be aged 65 or above
- Have resided in Hong Kong for at least 7 years continuously since the age of 18
- Currently be residing in Hong Kong
- Pass the financial eligibility test (income and assets below specified limits)
- Not be currently residing in a subvented care home
- Not be receiving CSSA (you must choose one or the other)
How to Apply
Check your eligibility
You must be aged 65 or above, have resided in Hong Kong for at least 7 years since age 18, and currently reside in Hong Kong. You must also meet the financial eligibility criteria.
Obtain the application form
Collect Form SS-OAA from any Social Security Field Unit (SSFU), Social Security Branch (SSB), or download it from the SWD website.
Complete the application form
Fill in your personal details, financial information (income, assets, properties), and declare any CSSA or other allowances currently received.
Gather required documents
Prepare your HKID, proof of age, bank statements, proof of assets (property ownership documents, investment statements), and proof of residence.
Submit your application
Submit the completed form and all supporting documents at the nearest Social Security Field Unit. You may also have someone submit on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself.
Attend an interview (if required)
The SWD officer may invite you for an interview to verify your information. Bring original documents.
Receive approval and payment
Once approved, payments are made monthly by cheque or direct bank transfer. You will receive a written approval notice.
Documents Needed
- Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID)
- Proof of age (birth certificate or passport)
- Bank statements (last 3 months for all accounts)
- Proof of assets (property deeds, investment account statements)
- Proof of residence (utility bill, tenancy agreement, or owner certificate)
- Any existing welfare approval letters
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