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SpicyMumma(Newbie)Newbie
15 Sept 2024

Hi ATO Community,

Looking for some info and a life line.

I've just gone to complete my return and found I owe thousands due to final payment for HECS debt.


CONTEXT:

I have been struggling to keep up with my work hours since returning from maternity leave in the last year and a half. I have had about $20,000 worth of unpaid leave in the last financial year from all the leave I've had to take for my son when he brings home a bug (we have no help with him), and then when I'm unwell (which is all the time lately). Turns out have 2 disabilities (ADHD and autism) and 1 possibly 2 chronic illnesses (Mast Cell issues, confirmed and Ehlers Danlos seeking a diagnosis). I am eligible for NDIS but have been waiting over 6 months and still no confirmation of support. My salary was $2000 over the cut off for not having to pay HECS this year. And my medical bills were about $5000 alone this month.


QUESTION:

Is there any way that I could apply to not pay HECS this year and pay it next year once I have more support in place and am not missing so much work?


I have proof of 3 diagnosis that I could provide the ATO.



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789 views
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Most helpful response

Most helpful reply

RachATO(Community Support)Community Support
16 Sept 2024

Hi @SpicyMumma,

 

There's been a lot going on, it seems, and I hope you're okay.

 

We understand life can throw some massive curveballs, and we encourage people to let us know if they need help, or a bit of leeway with payments.

 

With the HECS, you can apply to defer the compulsory repayment for this year. It's as easy as filling in the form, providing supporting documents (if needed) and sending it to us. And if for some reason it can't be deferred, we can look at other options to make the repayment easier, such as a payment plan which breaks the repayment into smaller amounts. 


Hopefully this goes well and smooths out the rest of the year for you.

All replies

Most helpful reply

RachATO(Community Support)Community Support
16 Sept 2024

Hi @SpicyMumma,

 

There's been a lot going on, it seems, and I hope you're okay.

 

We understand life can throw some massive curveballs, and we encourage people to let us know if they need help, or a bit of leeway with payments.

 

With the HECS, you can apply to defer the compulsory repayment for this year. It's as easy as filling in the form, providing supporting documents (if needed) and sending it to us. And if for some reason it can't be deferred, we can look at other options to make the repayment easier, such as a payment plan which breaks the repayment into smaller amounts. 


Hopefully this goes well and smooths out the rest of the year for you.

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