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Family Tax Benefit Part A and Part B

Family Tax Benefit is a payment that helps with the cost of raising children. It is made up of two parts: Family Tax Benefit Part A and Family Tax Benefit Part B.

Changes for Family Tax Benefit customers

From 1 July 2012, you will not be able to access fortnightly instalments for a current entitlement year if you have two consecutive years of confirmed zero entitlements to FTB, if your actual Adjusted Taxable Income (ATI) is too high. Read more on the changes for Family Tax Benefit customers.

Family Tax Benefit Part A is paid for each child. You may be eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A if you have:

  • a dependent child under 16 years of age, or
  • a dependent child 16–20 years of age who either:
    • has completed a Year 12 or equivalent qualification
    • is undertaking full-time education or training leading to a Year 12 or equivalent qualification
    • is exempt, or
  • a dependent full-time student 21 years of age, and
  • care of the child for at least 35 per cent of the time, and
  • income under a certain amount.

Note: Family Tax Benefit Part A may be payable for children 22–24 years of age who were in full-time study on 31 December 2011. If you are eligible, you may be able to receive Family Tax Benefit for them until they complete their current course of study, earn over the income limit or they turn 25. Family Tax Benefit A is income tested. The amount you get paid is based on your family’s individual circumstances.

Family Tax Benefit Part B gives extra help to single parents and families with one main income, where one parent stays at home to care for children full-time or balances some paid work with caring for children. This payment is income tested.

You may be eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part B if you have:

  • a dependent child under 16 years of age, or
  • a qualifying dependent in full-time secondary studies (not tertiary) or who is exempt from the activity test, up to the age of 18 years (who doesn’t get Youth Allowance or a similar payment), and
  • care of the child for at least 35 per cent of the time.

The rate of Family Tax Benefit Part B is based on an income test.

You and/or your partner cannot receive Family Tax Benefit Part B during a Paid Parental Leave period. Family Tax Benefit Part B may be paid after the Paid Parental Leave period.

You cannot receive Family Tax Benefit for a child receiving a pension, labour market related payment or benefit such as Youth Allowance.

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