Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A and B — Australia

Family Tax Benefit (FTB) helps Australian families with the cost of raising children. It has two parts: Part A is paid per child and helps with general costs of raising kids; Part B is an additional payment for single parents and families with one main income. Both are paid fortnightly or as a lump sum after tax time. This guide covers eligibility, amounts, and how to apply.

Family Tax Benefit Part A

• Paid for each dependent child aged 0–15, or 16–19 in full-time secondary study.
• Maximum rate (2026): approximately $230/fortnight for children 0–12, $300/fortnight for children 13–15.
• Income-tested: full rate if family income is below approximately $58,000; tapers above that.
• Includes an end-of-year supplement if you've lodged your tax return.

Family Tax Benefit Part B

• Additional payment for single-parent families or families with one main income earner.
• Maximum rate (2026): approximately $185/fortnight if youngest child is under 5; less if older.
• Available to families with primary earner income up to approximately $113,000.
• Secondary earner can earn up to $6,059/year before payment reduces.

How to apply for FTB

• Apply via myGov → Centrelink → Claims and Payments → Family Tax Benefit.
• Provide your child's details, family income estimate, custody arrangements (if applicable).
• Choose payment frequency: fortnightly or lump sum after tax time.
• You can also claim for the year just past (backdated FTB) if you didn't claim during the year.

Frequently asked questions

Do both parents need to apply?

No, only the primary carer applies. In shared-care arrangements, FTB can be split based on care percentage.

What income counts for FTB?

Adjusted Taxable Income (ATI) — includes wages, business income, taxable super withdrawals, investment income, and certain reportable fringe benefits.

What if I overestimate or underestimate income?

After tax time, Centrelink reconciles your actual income against your estimate. Overpayments must be repaid; underpayments are paid as a top-up. Always update your estimate when your income changes.