The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

4.1.4 Early claims for family assistance

Summary

This topic describes when an early claim for FTB may be made and the deferral of determination of early claims. A more detailed description of the claim process for this payment is provided at 4.2.

Early claims for family assistance

Claims for FTB by instalment may be made up to 97 days before the expected DOB of the child or the day the child is expected to enter the care of the individual making the claim. The day that the child is expected to be born or to enter the individual's care is the day the child is expected to become an FTB child of the individual. Early claims are subject to deferral rules.

Act reference: FA(Admin)Act section 3(1)-'early claim day'

Policy reference: FA Guide 2.1.1.10 FTB child

Deferral of determination of early claim for FTB

An early claim cannot be determined before the child has been born or has come into care. Where an individual makes an early claim for payment of FTB by instalment and Centrelink is satisfied that the individual would be eligible for FTB in respect of the child, Centrelink will defer determination of the claim until the earlier of the following:

  • the day the child becomes an FTB child of the individual, or is stillborn, or
  • 28 days after the day on which the child is expected to become an FTB child of the individual.

Example: Sarah is expecting her first child on 2 January 2011 and lodges her claim for family assistance in October 2010. Sarah gives birth to her child on 4 January 2011 and provides proof of her child's birth to Centrelink on 16 January 2011. Centrelink can determine Sarah's claim, effective from 4 January 2011.

Act reference: FA(Admin)Act section 15B Deferral of determination of early claims

Last reviewed: