Raising children is an expensive responsibility, especially as living costs continue to rise. To help ease this financial burden, the Australian government provides the Family Tax Benefit (FTB), which offers $288 per fortnight for eligible families with children aged 13 to 19 years. This guide explains the details of the FTB, eligibility requirements, how to claim, and the benefits that families can receive starting in December 2024.
Key Information at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $288.82 per fortnight for each eligible child (aged 13-19 years) |
| Eligibility | Children aged 0–19 years with study and immunization requirements; income and residency rules apply |
| How to Claim | Through myGov linked to Centrelink; claim fortnightly or as an annual lump sum |
| Official Resource | Services Australia – Family Tax Benefit |
What is the Family Tax Benefit?
The Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is a government payment aimed at helping families with the costs of raising children. It is divided into two parts:
- FTB Part A: This is the primary payment for families with dependent children aged 0–19 years.
- FTB Part B: Additional financial assistance for single parents or families with one primary income earner, regardless of child age.
These payments aim to ensure children have access to the essentials such as education, healthcare, and food, while also reducing financial strain on parents.
Who is Eligible for the $288 Per Fortnight Family Tax Benefit in December 2024?
To qualify for the Family Tax Benefit, both the child and the family’s circumstances must meet specific requirements. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
1. Child-Related Requirements
- FTB Part A:
- Applies to children aged 0–15 years.
- Children aged 16–19 years are eligible if they are:
- Enrolled in full-time secondary school or an equivalent program.
- Living at home with their parent(s) or guardian(s).
- FTB Part B:
- Available for families with children under 13 years.
- Also available for single parents or families with one primary income earner, even if the child is older.
2. Income Test
Your eligibility for FTB is determined by your family’s adjusted taxable income (ATI), with the following guidelines:
- Maximum annual income for full benefits: $58,108.
- The payment amount decreases as your income increases, but partial payments may still be available for those who earn more than the threshold.
- Secondary income for FTB Part B must be below $10,900 annually, unless you have a child under 1 year old.
3. Residency Requirements
To be eligible, you must:
- Reside in Australia.
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa.
- Care for your child at least 35% of the time.
4. Immunisation and Health Checks
For FTB Part A, your child must meet the National Immunisation Program requirements unless an exemption applies. Regular health checks may be required for younger children as well.
How Much Can You Receive with the Family Tax Benefit?
The amount of FTB you are eligible for depends on your family’s situation, the number of children, and their ages. Below is a breakdown of the maximum fortnightly payment rates:
| Payment Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| FTB Part A (0-12 years) | $222.04 per fortnight per child |
| FTB Part A (13-19 years) | $288.82 per fortnight per child (if meeting study requirements) |
| FTB Part B (Under 5 years) | $177.94 per fortnight |
| FTB Part B (5-18 years) | $124.84 per fortnight (for single parents only) |
These amounts are subject to income and care requirements, so it’s crucial to update your details with Centrelink.
How to Claim the $288 Family Tax Benefit
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you claim the Family Tax Benefit:
Step 1: Set Up a myGov Account
- Create or log into your myGov account.
- Link your Centrelink account to your myGov for easy access.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Before you begin your claim, make sure you have the following documents:
- Proof of your child’s birth or adoption (e.g., birth certificate).
- Income details for you and your partner.
- Shared care or custody arrangements (if applicable).
Step 3: Submit Your Claim
- Log into myGov, go to Centrelink, and select Payments and Claims.
- Choose Family Tax Benefit and complete the online form.
- Upload any required documents.
Step 4: Track Your Application
Once submitted, Centrelink will assess your claim. You can track the status through myGov or the Centrelink app.
Step 5: Choose Your Payment Option
You can choose to receive your FTB payment fortnightly or as an annual lump sum. Many families prefer fortnightly payments for regular cash flow, while others opt for a lump sum to cover larger expenses.
Practical Tips for Families
- Update Your Income Estimate: Be sure to submit accurate income details to avoid overpayments or debts.
- Check for Additional Benefits: If your child has special needs or medical conditions, you may qualify for additional assistance such as the Carer Payment or Child Disability Assistance Payment.
- Use the Family Assistance Estimator: The Family Assistance Estimator on the Services Australia website can help you calculate your potential benefits.
Example Scenarios of How the Family Tax Benefit Helps
- Single Parent with Two Children: Sarah, a single mother of two children, qualifies for both FTB Part A and FTB Part B. Sarah receives:
- $222.04 per fortnight for her 10-year-old child.
- $288.82 per fortnight for her 15-year-old child.
- $124.84 per fortnight from FTB Part B. In total, Sarah receives $635.70 every fortnight, which significantly helps with the financial demands of raising children.
FAQs
Q1. What if my child finishes school early?
If your child aged 16–19 leaves school, they may no longer qualify for FTB Part A. It’s important to notify Centrelink immediately to prevent overpayments.
Q2. Can I backdate my claim?
Yes, claims can typically be backdated up to 12 months, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for that period.
Q3. Are FTB payments taxable?
No, Family Tax Benefit payments are not considered taxable income.
Q4. How often do I need to update my details?
You should update your details whenever there is a change in your income, family structure, or care arrangements.
