Help/Advice with starting off

[djheartsw]

Hi All,

We just had a slight bleeding scare yesterday but had a transvaginal US and saw our little little one and its heartbeat.

Anyway we are 6 weeks in and would like some advice on what we may be eligable for.

*he* works and earns about 45k.
*she* is training and works part time.

We would like to know for when we move in with *f's mum, for centerlink purpose is there any benefit to say we are de facto or other? because from one of the threads it said the combined income is a big factor.

*she* is on no gov benefits, but *he* was thinking it must be available.

Please please help we are unsure where to start and initial GP was terrible, Royal womens was great yesterday but did not advise us of any forms.

Thanks in advance

[catherinemoses]

My advice would be do not lie to centrelink. If you are in a defacto relationship then tell them.
You will get all the necessary forms when you birth your baby. They will include the baby bonus claim form and the forms for family tax benefit.
I'm doubtful that you would qualify for any centrelink payments (you may be entitled to a heath care card) in your present situation.
You can always make an appointment at one of the offices to discuss your situation.

[*becstar*]

Yup, no benefits until there is a baby Unless you are already entitled. Centrelink don't pay for a baby in utero

I would also say on the forms (when bub is born and you get them) that you are de-facto, and from there on in any benefit you receive will be based on your combined income. If you say you are separated then to get any parenting payment from Centrelink you have to go through Child Support and if you aren't really separated then that's a load of hassle you don't need!! Plus if you get busted you will be in trouble

You'll get some Family Tax Benefit for sure If you are going to be living with your MIL then that will be a huge money saver too for not paying rent as such.

GL and Congrats

[tattoo_mama]

Yep as the other ladies have said u can't get any payments while your pregnant....only once bubs arrives.

There's a heap of info on the centrelink website and there's a 'rate estimator' which can tell you what u may be elegible for and how much. HTH

[Counting Days]

guess what you are de-facto their is no other

[Lulu]

Try the centrelink website for further information. Drs and hospitals dont have this info, but when baby is born they will hand you the forms to start your baby bonus/FTB claim.

as said before, you ARE in a defacto relationship and will be living with your MIL so there isn't another way to claim.

You may be eligible for Rent Assistance also if you pay rent to mil.