Common Situations & Solutions
Life changes, and when it does, your Centrelink payments often need to change too. These guides cover the most common situations our readers face — from receiving an inheritance to dealing with payment problems.
⏰ Critical Deadlines to Remember
💡 Life Changes
Inheritance, moving house, and relationship changes all require notification to Centrelink within 14 days.
⚠️ Problems & Appeals
Payment stopped? Disagree with a decision? Got a debt? You have 13 weeks to request a review.
💼 Working on Pension
The Work Bonus shields $300/fn of employment income from the income test.
Situation Guides
Click on any situation below to read the full guide with step-by-step instructions.
Inheritance & Windfall Guide
Received money or property unexpectedly? Learn how to report it, understand the impact on your pension, and explore your options.
Moving House Guide
Moving locally, interstate, or planning overseas travel? Know what to tell Centrelink and how it affects your payments.
Relationship Changes Guide
Starting a relationship, separating, or becoming widowed? Your payment rate will change — here's what to expect.
Appeals Process Guide
Disagree with a Centrelink decision? Learn how to request an internal review and appeal to the AAT if needed.
Centrelink Debts Guide
Told you owe money to Centrelink? Don't panic. Learn how to check the calculation, dispute errors, and arrange payments.
Working While on Pension
Want to keep working? Learn how the Work Bonus protects your pension and how to report your income correctly.
Need Personalised Help?
Complex situations often need professional guidance. Get expert help to navigate Centrelink correctly.
Accuracy Note: Whilst every effort has been made to provide current and accurate information, if you spot a factual error, please let me know via the Contact Us page so I can fix it ASAP.
Source: Services Australia (servicesaustralia.gov.au)
Last reviewed: March 2026