OALA review and pre-application self-check checklist (2026)
Receiving the OALA isn't a one-off — the Social Welfare Department reviews it periodically, and recipients must honestly declare updated assets and income. Accumulated deposit interest, a lump-sum MPF withdrawal or investment gains can push assets over the limit at review. Organising your assets early and honestly is the safe way to keep eligibility.
What is the OALA review?
The OALA has a periodic review; the SWD asks recipients to declare updated assets and income. At review, assets and income must still be within the 2026 limits (single asset ~HK$415,000, couple ~HK$630,000; monthly income HK$10,900 single, HK$16,680 couple). Exempt items like insurance cash value remain exempt at review, but undrawn cash, deposits and stocks are still counted.
The review and limits follow the Social Welfare Department.
Most common reasons for exceeding the limit
- Bank deposits accumulating (including interest).
- A lump-sum MPF withdrawal at 65 becoming counted cash.
- Appreciation of stocks, funds and other investments.
- Holding or inheriting non-owner-occupied property.
Honest declaration is the basis; this is not a way around the test.
Pre-application / pre-review self-check checklist
- Bank: list cash and deposit balances across all accounts.
- Investments: latest market value of stocks, funds, bonds.
- MPF: withdrawn? Any withdrawn amount is a counted asset.
- Property: separate owner-occupied (exempt) and non-owner-occupied (counted).
- Insurance: confirm the cash value of existing policies (exempt).
- Income: rent, annuity, pension and other monthly income.
- Couple: combine both parties' assets and income.
Use the GovHK Social Security Allowance eligibility calculator for an initial estimate.
Principles for preparing before review
The review is about honestly reflecting your latest situation, not moving assets at the last minute. Follow 'review your situation → organise honestly → prepare documents': gather bank statements, investment statements, property and insurance documents in advance so your declaration is accurate. If your asset structure has changed (e.g. just withdrew MPF, sold property), reflect it honestly and consult a licensed professional if needed.
General education only, not personalised advice; eligibility and review follow the SWD.
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
Is OALA reviewed periodically?
Yes. The SWD has a periodic review; recipients must honestly declare updated assets and income, which must stay within the 2026 limits (single asset ~HK$415,000, couple ~HK$630,000). Per the SWD.
Is insurance cash value still exempt at review?
Yes. Insurance cash value remains exempt from assets at review; but undrawn cash, deposits, stocks and withdrawn MPF are still counted. All declarations must be honest.
What should I check before applying or a review?
List all bank deposits, investment values, withdrawn MPF, non-owner-occupied property and monthly income, and confirm the cash value of existing insurance; couples combine both parties. Use the GovHK calculator for an initial estimate.
Can I move assets temporarily before a review?
The review is about honestly reflecting your latest situation; you shouldn't move assets or fabricate transactions to pass it. Organise and declare honestly, and seek professional advice if needed.
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