23. Centrelink Rent Assistance We recommend that in addition to applying for <Centrelink allowance / pension>, you may also be eligible for rent assistance. If you receive certain payments from Centrelink such as age pension, you do not need to submit a claim for rent assistance. Centrelink will check if you are eligible for rent assistance. Centrelink will ask for a copy of a formal tenancy agreement. They may also send you a Rent Certificate to complete and return. They use this to confirm how much rent you pay. Benefits:
Rent assistance is paid by Centrelink when you receive certain payments or receive more than the base rate of Family Tax Benefit. These payments will help in paying your rent bills / board / lodgings / retirement village fees.
Points to Consider:
You will need to provide Centrelink with evidence of your rent such as the rental contract. Centrelink payments are subject to legislative change which may impact the amount of your entitlement in the future. You must notify Centrelink of any significant changes, including a change of address within 14 days, for a review of your entitlements.
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