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An overpayment is when you received more child support than you were entitled to and you may need to pay it back.
A debt is when you paid less child support than you were required to, and you need to pay the amount you owe.
Why an overpayment or debt happens
An overpayment or debt usually happens when we get new information that changes a child support assessment for a past period.
For example, an overpayment or debt may happen if there is a change to:
- income
- care arrangements
- a child’s circumstances
- a child support case.
You can’t object to an overpayment or debt. However, you may be able to lodge an objection to the decision which caused it.
Overpayments and debts are still payable if the child support assessment ends.
Watch this video to find out more about avoiding and managing debt.
What to do if your circumstances change
Tell us as soon as your circumstances change. This includes changes to your contact details, care arrangements, income, or child support payments you receive. This helps you avoid an overpayment or debt.
If your income changes
When your income changes, you’ll need to contact us as it may impact your child support assessment. Find out more about how your income affects your child support.
If your care arrangements change
Changes to care arrangements can affect a child support assessment. You need to tell us straight away. If you don’t tell us within 28 days:
- your level of care may only apply from the date you tell us
- you may get a child support debt or overpayment
- your assessment may be suspended or ended.
Find out more about how your percentage of care affects your child support payments.
If the child support you receive changes
If you receive more or less child support than you’re assessed to receive, this might also impact your Family Tax Benefit (FTB). For more information see how child support affects FTB Part A payment rates.
If your contact details change
Make sure your details are up to date and correct, even if your child support case has ended. This is so we can contact you.
If your Child Support online account is linked to myGov you can tell us online.
If you don’t have a myGov account or a Child Support online account, you’ll need to create them.
You can also use the myGov app from the myGov website. If you can’t update your details online, please call us on the Child Support enquiry line.
What financial information is available
If you’re going through a hard time financially, there is help available. You can get free financial help and information, find a financial counsellor or get help with debt.
Our Financial Information Service (FIS) Officers provide free, independent and confidential information to help you understand your financial options and build your money skills.
Contact numbers available on this page.
Child Support enquiry line
Use this line if you have a question about child support or need to report a change in your circumstances. Let us know if you need an interpreter and we’ll arrange one for free.
There are other ways you may want to contact us.