Understanding FTB Part B eligibility can help many Australian families get the extra support they need while raising children. The Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is a helpful government payment divided into two parts: Part A and Part B. While Part A focuses on supporting each child in your family, Part B provides extra help to single parents and families with one main income.
What is FTB Part B?
Family Tax Benefit Part B is designed to help families where one person is the primary income earner. It especially supports:
- Single parents
- Grandparent carers
- Couples with one main income
This benefit recognizes that some parents may not be able to work full-time or at all because they’re caring for children.
FTB Part B is paid per family, not per child. That means if you qualify, you’ll get one payment for the whole family, not individual payments for each child like in Part A.
Who Can Get FTB Part B?
To qualify for FTB Part B, you must meet certain requirements. The eligibility rules are based on your relationship status, child’s age, residency, and income.
You may be eligible if:
- You’re a member of a couple with one main income and you care for a child under 13.
- You’re a single parent or grandparent carer and care for a child under 18. If the child is 16 to 18 years old, they must meet study requirements.
Other requirements include:
- You must live in Australia and meet residency rules (see below).
- You must care for the child at least 35% of the time.
- You need to meet the income test.
- You can’t receive Parental Leave Pay on the same days you’re getting FTB Part B.
Table: Quick Overview of FTB Part B Eligibility
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Type | Single parent, grandparent carer, or couple with one main income |
| Child’s Age | Under 13 (couples), under 18 (single parents/grandparents) |
| Study Requirement (16–18 years) | Must be in full-time study or have an exemption |
| Residency | Must live in Australia and meet residency rules |
| Care Time | At least 35% of the time |
| Income Test | Must meet limits based on family income |
| Other Restrictions | Not available during Parental Leave Pay days |
Study Requirements for Teenagers
If your child is 16 to 18 years old, they need to be studying to qualify under FTB Part B. Here’s what counts:
- They are in full-time secondary education (like Year 12 or equivalent).
- They have an acceptable study load.
- They have received an approved exemption.
Residency Rules You Need to Know
To get FTB Part B, both you and the child must live in Australia and meet one of the following:
- Be an Australian citizen
- Hold a permanent visa
- Have a special category visa
- Hold a temporary visa like a partner provisional or protection visa
If you’re a new arrival, you might have to wait up to 12 months before becoming eligible, unless an exemption applies.
Income Rules for FTB Part B
FTB Part B is income-tested. This means your payment amount depends on how much you (and your partner, if any) earn.
Here’s how it works:
- You must lodge a tax return at the end of each financial year.
- If you don’t need to lodge a return, you must tell Services Australia.
- Payments may be reduced or stopped based on income thresholds.
- If you receive child support, it can also affect your payment.
After the financial year ends, Centrelink will balance your payments based on your income.
How and When Are Payments Made?
FTB Part B can be paid:
- Every two weeks (fortnightly), or
- As a lump sum at the end of the financial year
There’s also a supplement payment at the end of the year, paid after Services Australia balances your payments once you’ve lodged your tax return.
You may also get:
- Energy Supplement
- Single Income Family Supplement
These extras help cover basic living expenses.
How to Apply for FTB Part B
Applying is simple if you have access to myGov and Centrelink online services. Here’s how to apply:
Apply Online:
- Log in to your myGov account linked with Centrelink.
- Go to Payments and Claims.
- Submit your Family Tax Benefit claim.
Other ways to apply:
- Call Centrelink Families Line at 136 150.
- Visit a local service centre.
Make sure you have important documents ready like proof of income, visa details (if applicable), and care arrangements for the child.
FAQ About FTB Part B Eligibility
1. Can both parents receive FTB Part B?
No. Only one person per family can receive FTB Part B, and it’s usually the person who earns less or is the main carer.
2. Can I get FTB Part B while on Parental Leave Pay?
No. You can’t receive FTB Part B on any day that Parental Leave Pay is being paid.
3. Do I qualify if I only care for my child part-time?
You must care for your child at least 35% of the time to be eligible.
4. Does FTB Part B include a supplement?
Yes. A supplement is paid at the end of the financial year, but only after you lodge your tax return or notify Centrelink.
5. What if my child is turning 4?
You’ll need to meet the early childhood health check and immunisation requirements to continue getting payments.
Final Thoughts
FTB Part B eligibility helps make life a bit easier for families who may be living on a single income or managing parenting alone. It gives valuable financial support when raising children, especially during their early and school years. Just make sure you meet the care, income, and residency rules—and don’t forget about study requirements for older kids.
To find out exactly how much you might receive, use the Centrelink Payment and Service Finder online or get in touch with Services Australia.
