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.

10.23.7.30 Overpayments Resulting from Arrears of Greek Benefits

Overpayments

Article 16(1) of the Agreement provides that excess payments due to arrears of Greek benefits becoming payable are debts and are payable to the relevant institution.

SSAct section 1228A also allows for a debt to be raised against individuals who have been overpaid a benefit by one State as a result of the grant of a benefit by the other State. Recovery of a debt can be by cash refund, by withholding from future entitlements, or by withholding a portion of the arrears payable by the other State.

Further recovery from future entitlements would generally apply when:

the arrears are insufficient to fully recover the overpayment, or
the arrears have been released directly to the recipient.

Act reference: SS(IntAgree)Act Schedule 22 Hellenic Republic

SSAct section 1228A Comparable foreign payment debt recovery

Policy reference: SS Guide 4.3.6.10 Income from overseas payments - general rules

Last reviewed: 20 March 2015

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