The job of raising children is really a full-time, involving life, and that probably describes the challenges of many Australians who have to balance lives with family and financial responsibilities. Fortunately, there’s Centrelink with the Parenting Payment, which helps parents or guardians eligible to meet part of their financial needs. This payment can serve as a lifeline for those who are suddenly single primary caregivers and require support.
This article discusses what Parenting Payment entails, that is the $915 payment amount: the eligibility criteria, the application process step-by-step, and payment schedules.
What is the Centrelink Parenting Payment?
The Parenting Payment is financial assistance from Centrelink to parents who are the primary caregivers of young children, specifically those aged below 16 years. It assists with daily living expenses and child-related costs. This financial assistance will be up to $915 a fortnight, depending on certain eligibility conditions.
Who is Eligible for the Parenting Payment?
Many conditions determine qualification benefits for the Parenting Payment eligibility. First, the requirement relates to children’s ages, as it has been stipulated that it is for parents or guardians of children aged under eight years at the time of claiming payment. It is stipulated that you are to be the primary caregiver for the child and that you do not live with the child’s other parent or partner. You also have to be a permanent Australian resident living in Australia at the time of the application. It is essential to go through the income and asset tests, too, which specify getting it to those who need it most. But eligibility has some variance, depending upon the specifics of your situation, like if you are single, partnered, or a caregiver of a child with a disability.
How to Apply for the Parenting Payment
You will follow these steps when applying for Parenting Payment through Centrelink:
Step 1: Create a myGov Account
If you haven’t already, create a myGov account and link it to the Centrelink organization. This can be done on the myGov site.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You will need to get any of the following personal information and documents: your personal identification details (such as your Medicare number, tax file number and bank account information), proof of your child’s birth (for example, certificate of birth), your income and asset information (if they exist), and any other relevant documents requested by Centrelink.
Step 3: Make the Application:
Once you have all the required documents, sign in to myGov, click on Centrelink, and complete the online process of the application for Parenting Payment, following prompts.
Step 4: Wait for Decision
Once you submit the application to Centrelink, it takes time to check your eligibility based on the information you provide. Notification will be sent to you about your application status. In case it is approved, you will be advised about the payment amount, following which the payment begins.
Step 5: Reporting Requirements
If you receive the approval for payment, the Parenting Payment requires continuous reporting about actions to continue receiving this payment. This could result from an income report or change in your circumstances (for instance, the age of your child or the status of your relationship).
Payment Schedule: When and How Will Parenting Payment Be Received?
Once approved, expect the following things:
Payment Frequency
The Parenting Payment is paid fortnightly, with a maximum payment amount being $915. Your own circumstances, like income and assets, may also affect how much payment you will get.
Payment Methods
You can choose how you want your payments delivered to you. These can include: bank transfer, in which payments go directly to your nominated bank account, or by Centrepay, which is a free direct bill paying service through Centrelink, which can automatically deduct payments for essential services, like rent and utilities.
Payment Dates
Payments are usually made on the same day most of the time; however, sometimes it may change due to weekends or public holidays. It’s a good practice to check your payment schedule regularly, through your myGov account, to update yourself on payment dates.
Can You Receive Other Benefits Alongside the Parenting Payment?
Yes, you may receive additional payments or benefits while being on Parenting Payment. An example is the Family Tax Benefit which can be received, or paid as a benefit, in conjunction with the Parenting Payment since the benefit enables parents to raise their children with less expense. If you are working or studying, you may also be entitled to Child Care Subsidy, which gives help with childcare costs. It would be wise for you to contact Centrelink on your specific circumstances to see what else may be applicable to you.
Key Takeaways
Centrelink Parenting Payment provides financial assistance to a parent who is the primary caregiver of a child aged under 8 years. Opening a myGov account, arranging the documents, and submitting the application through Centrelink is what is required for applications. Payments will be made fortnightly, the maximum being $915 based on eligibility. It is also possible to get support from Family Tax Benefit and Child Care Subsidy while receiving Parenting Payment.