💸How to claim Parenting Payment in 2026

Parenting Payment is the main income support for principal carers of young children. If you''re the main carer of a child under 14 (single) or under 6 (partnered), you may qualify.

Before you start

You''ll need:

• Your Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN) — call 136 150 if you don''t have one
• myGov account linked to Centrelink
• ID documents (driver''s licence, passport or birth certificate)
• Bank account details
• Recent payslips or proof you''re not working
• Your child''s birth certificate and care arrangements

Step 1 — Start your claim online

Sign into myGov → Centrelink → Make a claim → Families → Parenting Payment. The form takes 30–60 minutes. You can save and come back.

Step 2 — Provide proof of separation

If you''ve recently separated, you''ll need to lodge a Separation Details (SS293) form. Centrelink may also call your ex-partner to verify — this is normal.

Step 3 — Upload supporting documents

Upload everything via the Document Upload tool in myGov.

Step 4 — Wait for assessment

Most claims are decided within 21 days. Backpay is paid from the date you started your claim, so lodge as soon as you can.

If you''re knocked back

You have 13 weeks to request a review by an Authorised Review Officer (free). Contact a community legal centre or a financial counsellor on 1800 007 007 for free help.

Tip: Apply for Family Tax Benefit A and B at the same time. They''re separate payments and most single mums qualify for both.

For the bigger picture, see the plain-English overview of single parent payments, the full roundup of support for Australian single parents, and how Paid Parental Leave works. Once payments begin, a small emergency buffer can make unexpected costs less destabilising.