Change in accommodation income

Clients must tell MSD when the child starts getting accommodation income or there is a change in accommodation income the child gets from renters or boarders so the correct rate of Away From Home Allowance can be paid.

When there is a change in accommodation income that a child gets, review the Away From Home Allowance to make sure they still meet the qualifications and are getting the correct rate of payment. The date to review Away from Home Allowance from will depend on the action involved. Generally, MSD should:

• increase Away from Home Allowance from the actual date of the change in circumstances or
• reduce, suspend or cancel Away from Home Allowance from the first available date except when the client advises of a change more than 14 days after the event

Note if the client gives false or misleading information MSD must review Away from Home Allowance from the actual date of the change in circumstances and establish an overpayment where appropriate.