Hi! I'm a single mother who works part time. I receive FTB and single parenting payment through Centrelink. I report my income as accurately as I can each fortnight as it varies.
Yesterday I received a phone call from Centrelink explaining I had been selected for a 'Centrelink Random Review'. The lady has scheduled a time with me in 2 weeks at a local Centrelink office.
Has anyone ever had one of these before? What is it all about? I am so confused as to what it is actually for. I am worried I have made a mistake with my income reporting or something. I asked the lady on the phone if there was a reason behind this and she explained that 30 000 people on benefits get reviewed, but I had never heard of it before. I'm also a mega worrywart so I'm scared I'll have done something wrong and end up with a debt which is why they have called me in.
So my question to you is.. Has anybody had one of these? What is it all about? What questions do they ask you?
Thank you in advance :-)
3 Replies
Totally normal. Don't stress. They actually called me in once and basically asked if my son was still autistic or not, as I wa receiving carers allowance.
I'd take my payslips, if they haven't already seen them.
Even if by accident you had a small debt they would just give you a very tiny repayment plan. It's lime a random breath test, if you haven't been drink driving, nothing to worry about.
Yes I have and I stressed too! It's normal when you're child turns 3 she explained. She updates and checks all your information and sets up services and plans future. It's good.
I too was called in for a review only weeks after returning to work after having children. I stressed too, thinking the worst. They are there to look after your best interest as well as their own. ?