Single Parent Payment Scheme Broken Down

Raising children on your own is hard enough without having to figure out how to navigate the child support system. The Department of Human Services has created a portal that allows single parents to easily access the information and tools they need as quickly and conveniently as possible.

Information Available
The Parenting Payment system provides easy access to several important informational tools including an eligibility quiz, payment rates, income and assets test, residency requirements, waiting periods and a list of other benefits you could qualify for when you receive parenting payments.

In addition to providing quizzes and quick tests to determine whether you could qualify for benefits you can also apply for benefits, manage your payments and access other parenting resources including counseling and education options.

Applying Online
Once you have determined you are eligible for the parent benefits, click on the “Claiming” tab on the main page. Read the information provided and then press “next.” Before you can claim children you will need to set up a Centrelink account, if you don’t have one. During the claim process you’ll be asked a series of personal questions to determine what, if any, benefits you qualify for.

You’ll also need to provide additional financial information. You will have to mail, fax or email the documentation in following your online application.

 
Managing your Account
You can manage your payments online by clicking on the “Managing your Payment” tab. You’ll have access and tools to change personal information (financial circumstances, address etc.), review participation requirements, receive information regarding personal interviews with a case worker, review penalties for failing to meet activity requirements, payment options, reporting income and receiving or making payments when you travel outside of the country.

One feature included here is the ability to receive some of your payment in advance. This can be helpful if you plan to travel or need extra funds immediately to cover an emergency. You will need to provide proof of eligibility.

Resources Available
In addition to checking eligibility, applying online and managing your payments you can also access other tools. Your online account will provide immediate access to information about your account, tools for helping young parents, education and employment information and tools and links to community services.

Specific resources include help for parents who are under 19 years old and meet residency requirements, additional support is provided. Young parents will be required to meet with a specialist who will help set financial, parenting and personal goals.

Additionally, the Department of Human Services offers access to a program designed to increase speaking, reading, math and writing skills. These skills are honed to increase the applicant’s ability to find employment.

You can also browse other financial assistance programs available by taking a test on Payment Finder which will help determine what, if any, special assistance programs you may qualify for.

In addition to providing information for parents who qualify for payments, adoptive parents and care-givers will find a lot of helpful information and links to resources that can provide additional support.

For more information on financial support options such as loans, for single parents visit here.