Yahoo Finance Centrelink recipients warned: Debt recovery resuming
Centrelink recipients in flood-affected regions will need to start repaying their debts.
Services Australia said debt pauses were put in place to help those affected by disaster events, but those pauses were starting to be lifted.
“The date your repayments will begin will depend on which event you were affected by,” Services Australia said.
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If you were affected by a disaster event from January to February this year, Services Australia will let you know when your repayments will restart and what you need to do.
“We’ll also send you a reminder before your repayments start,” it said.
Those affected by disaster events from March to July will be required to start making repayments by October 1, 2022.
Those affected by new disaster events from August have been told they can self-manage their debt repayments.
“This means you can change or pause your debt repayments for up to three months,” Services Australia said.
“You will see this option in the Money you owe service in your Centrelink online account, through myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
“We’re here to help you repay money in a way that best suits you.
“Remember, you don’t need to pay the money back all at once. Most people set up a payment arrangement and repay it over time.”
“If you don’t understand your debt or you’re worried about repaying money, please let us know,” Services Australia said.
“We can let you know about the flexible repayment options and other support available to you.”
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