Centrelink Family Tax Benefits 2024: Eligibility & Payment Dates

Australia’s Family Tax Benefit (FTB) provides crucial financial support to help families raise children. In 2024, eligible families can receive up to $6,000 per child annually through two payments: FTB Part A and Part B. This comprehensive guide explains who qualifies, exact payment amounts, and when you’ll receive your benefits.

Who Qualifies for Family Tax Benefits in 2024?

Centrelink has specific eligibility requirements for both FTB payments:

FTB Part A (Basic Benefit)

• Paid per child (higher rates for teens 13-19)
• Family income must be below $108,892 for 1 child (threshold increases by ~$40,000 per additional child)
• Children must be under 15 (or 19 if in approved study)

FTB Part B (Extra Support for Single Parents/Couples with 1 Income)

• Additional payment for families with children under 13
• Income limit: $106,777 for families with youngest child under 5
• Single parents can earn up to $112,578

Special rules apply for foster children, adopted children, and separated families. Use the Services Australia Payment Finder to check your eligibility.

2024 Payment Rates & How Much You Can Receive

FTB Part A Maximum Rates (Per Child)

• $203.84 per fortnight (0-12 years)
• $259.58 per fortnight (13-19 years in school)
• Plus possible supplements of up to $891.25 annually

FTB Part B Maximum Rates

• $168.28 per fortnight (youngest child under 5)
• $117.46 per fortnight (youngest child 5-18)
• Plus possible supplement of $446.35 annually

Example: A single parent with two children (8 and 14) could receive $371.12 per fortnight plus supplements.

2024 Payment Dates & Claim Process

FTB payments arrive fortnightly on the same schedule as other Centrelink payments. Key dates:

• Next payment cycle: July 5, 2024
• Following payment: July 19, 2024
• Supplement payments: Usually paid in July after tax return processing

To claim:

1. Submit claim through MyGov linked to Centrelink
2. Provide children’s birth certificates and income documents
3. Complete identity verification
4. Payments start within 2-4 weeks of approval

Pro Tip: Update your income estimate regularly to avoid owing money at tax time.

FAQs About Family Tax Benefits

1. Can I get FTB if I work full-time?
Yes, if your family income is below the thresholds.

2. Do private school fees affect FTB?
No, but some scholarships may count as income.

3. What if my child turns 18 during the year?
They remain eligible if still in secondary school.

4. Can grandparents raising grandchildren claim FTB?
Yes, if they meet care requirements.

5. How does shared custody affect payments?
Benefits are split based on care percentage.

Key Takeaways

• FTB helps with costs of raising children
• Part A based on family income and children’s ages
• Part B provides extra support for single-income families
• Payments arrive fortnightly with supplements in July