Claiming
To get Family Tax Benefit you must lodge a claim with the Family Assistance Office. You can lodge your claim online or with forms.
On this page
Payment options
You can claim Family Tax Benefit as either:
- fortnightly payments - you will need to lodge an instalment claim, estimate your income, choose a payment option if appropriate, and later lodge tax returns for you and your partner (or tell the Family Assistance Office if you are not required to lodge a return), or
- an annual payment - you will need to lodge a lump sum claim, lodge tax returns for you and your partner (or advise if you are not required to lodge a return). You must keep accurate records when claiming Family Tax Benefit as a lump sum. You should keep records on changes to shared care arrangements and changes to your personal circumstances.
When to claim
Submit your claim for Family Tax Benefit with the Family Assistance Office as soon as possible, so that you can be paid from the earliest possible date.
You can claim Family Tax Benefit up to three months before the birth of a child or an adopted child entering your care.
Claiming online
- Read the information booklet about your claim for Family Assistance if you are claiming an annual payment
- Register for online services
- Logon to online services if you already have a Customer Access Number and password.
Completing an online claim
When lodging your claim we will ask you for information to assess your entitlement. This includes details of children in your care and your and your partner's income.
Proof of birth for your child is required unless you have already provided it to the Family Assistance Office for another claim.
We will tell you if there are other documents and forms you need to provide. The sooner we receive your documents, the sooner we can process your claim.
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Documentation and Information you may need when claiming family assistance payments
| Type | Information |
|---|---|
| Income details |
|
| Residence details |
|
| Work history information (Paid Parental Leave only) |
|
| Employer information (Paid Parental Leave only) |
|
| Details about your child (not needed for claims made before your child comes into your care) |
|
| Tax file number for you and your partner (if you have one) |
|
| Bank account details for payments |
|
| Child Care Benefit only |
|
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Claiming with forms
For claim forms you can:
- refer to Family Assistance claim forms and information
- phone the Family Assistance Office on 13 6150
- visit your nearest Family Assistance Office at Centrelink
Claim outcome
You will receive a letter from the Family Assistance Office telling you the outcome of your claim. If you are eligible, the letter will tell you how much you will get paid.
If you disagree with a decision we make
You always have the right to appeal any decision made by the Family Assistance Office.
More information
- Family Tax Benefit advance payment
- Family Tax Benefit Part A section
- Family Tax Benefit Part B section
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