How to avoid getting a debt
On this page- Tell us if things change
- Making sure you are paid the right amount
- How to avoid a debt
- If your circumstances change
- Options available for repaying a debt
- Tell us about the quality of service you received
Tell us if things change
You must tell us immediately when there are any changes to the information that you have already given us. For example, if you get a job, stop studying or change your address, you must tell us at once so that your rate of payment can be adjusted if necessary.
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Making sure you are paid the right amount
You must tell us if there are any changes to your or your partner’s circumstances such as:
- changes to income and assets from any source
- change of address or rent details
- change of partner or family details
- change of study details
- changes to residency or leaving Australia.
Note: You may still get some payment if you take up part time or casual work. You must tell Centrelink about any income you have earnt. We use this information to calculate your correct rate of payment.
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How to avoid a debt
You can also view and download a range of factsheets that provide information that may help reduce the chance of you being overpaid:
- Avoid a Centrelink debt brochure
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If your circumstances change
If you don’t tell Centrelink or Family Assistance Office about any changes, you may have to pay back some or all of your payment.
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Options available for repaying a debt
For more information on the options available for repaying a debt, refer to owing money to Centrelink or the Family Assistance Office information.
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Tell us about the quality of service you received
To tell us about the quality of the service you received, you can:
- phone Centrelink Customer Relations on FreeCALL™ 1800 050 004
- visit your nearest Centrelink Customer Service Centre
- send us a secure online message
- print and complete the Tell us what you think comment card
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