Client debt

Debts should be recovered from the parent when the child continues to be present at the centre, and a debt has arisen as a result of one of the following circumstances:

• change in parent's income
• absences - when no charge is made for absences by the OSCAR centre
• change in parents circumstances ie relationship changes
• change in application type
  Example if a client finishes training or ceases work, and is now only eligible for 9 hours
• change in care arrangement
• if the child or parent goes overseas we can only pay the subsidy if the costs are continuing. For example if an absence fee is charged. If the costs are not continuing the debt must be established from the day after the parent leaves the country.
• admitted/discharged from hospital
• imprisoned/held in custody

Note it is important that clear notes are put on CMS to show how the debt was created, and who is responsible for the refund.

For more information see:

• Absence from New Zealand
• Change in client's income
• Change in hours
• Hospitalisation
• Study