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.

10.15.7.10 Arrears of US Benefits

Arrears

When a person is granted a USA benefit, it is used to reassess the person's rate of Australian benefit. The rate of Australian benefit is reassessed retrospectively to determine whether the person has received a higher rate of Australian benefit than they were entitled to. Article 17 of the Agreement provides that any overpayment resulting from the arrears of US benefits is a debt and may be recovered under the social security laws of Australia (including withholdings from future payments).

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 13 USA

Policy reference: SS Guide 10.1.8.10 Arrears of Foreign Payment

Last reviewed: 9 November 2015

The Australian Government acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water, culture and community. We pay our respects to the Elders both past and present.