Centrelink have issued a reminder for parents with dependent teenage school children to consider claiming Family Tax Benefit for their child so to not miss any payments in the new year.
Parents with teenage school children, who have recently stopped their Youth Allowance are being urged to claim the benefits to make sure they don’t miss any payments in 2012.
Centrelink General Manager, Hank Jongen, said “under the Supporting Families with Teenagers changes, from 1 January, the maximum rate of Family Tax Benefit Part A for dependent 16 to 19 year olds still studying full-time at school will increase by up to $161.42 to $214.06 per child per fortnight. Rent Assistance and the Family Tax Benefit Part A supplement of up to $726.35 for each eligible child may also be available”.
“At the same time, dependent children aged under 18 who live at home and are in full-time secondary study generally won’t be able to receive Youth Allowance unless they meet certain criteria, although those already on the payment can still continue to receive it.
“Centrelink recently sent a letter to identified families, asking them to decide which payment will provide them with the best financial support.”
