Loans for People on Centrelink

Life does not stop while you are studying, unemployed, or retired. There are a wide range of unexpected expenses that might pop up between your Centrelink payments. These could include:

• Phone, electricity, and internet bills
• Unforeseen repairs for your house or vehicle
• Medical expenses
• Other fees such as personal events (funerals, weddings etc.) and moving house.

If you receive an eligible payment (e.g., ABSTUDY, Austudy, or Youth Allowance for students), you can apply to Centrelink for an advance payment whenever you need.  This is a government program administered by Centrelink and has strict requirements.

You generally will not be able to apply for a second Centrelink advance if you have already received one in the past year or if you are still paying back a previous advance.

The minimum and maximum vary depending on the type of Centrelink payment you usually receive. Most people (including those on ABSTUDY, Austudy, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment and Youth Allowance) can apply for an advance payment between $250 and $500.

If you think you are eligible for a Centrelink Advance, we suggest you get in contact with Centrelink directly to discuss how much you are eligible for.

When you get an advance payment from Centrelink, you’ll need to wait 12 months before applying again. You’ll also need to pay back the advance before applying for another. You can get more information about Centrelink advance payments here.

As part of the application process, you will have the opportunity to choose a repayment schedule that is affordable and corresponds with your payday.  It is important that you choose the repayment schedule that you can afford while still being able to pay your ongoing everyday expenses.  If not, then you should consider other options.

If during your loan, you cannot make a repayment when required, please let us know. As your agent, we will arrange a new affordable payment schedule.

Once you have repaid your loan, Cigno can assist you to apply for future loans whenever you need them.

Centrelink cannot access your bank account directly, which is why it’s important to keep them up to date with any significant changes to your financial circumstances (e.g., new income).

Once approved, you will usually receive your payment within a couple of business days.

Unfortunately, most Centrelink advance payments are capped at a maximum of $500. Exceptions to this include the Family Tax Benefit, where you can apply for up to $1,202.54. People on the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension or Carer Payment can get an advance of up to $1,401.60 (for singles) or $ $1,056.45 (for members of a couple). Either way, you can start your application here.