Exceptional circumstances for reapplication

If a client has an exceptional circumstance that affects their ability to reapply or contact MSD before their Sole Parent Support expiry date, they may be granted an extension to complete the reapplication process.

An extension may be granted for up to 20 working days starting on their expiry date, on the condition that the client competes the 52 week reappliation process within the extension period.

A situation or event is considered to be an exceptional circumstance when it:

• is unforeseen, out-of-the ordinary and could not be planned for and
• is beyond the client's control and
• sets the client apart from others in a similar situation and
• happened at any time during the client's notice period

Generally, MSD may request evidence of the client's circumstances. The evidence required depends on the reason of the exceptional circumstances of the client.

The reapplication must be processed as soon as possible. It can be no later than 20 working days from the expiry date, as the benefit will automatically be cancelled.

Note if a client is granted an extension and completes the reapplication process within the extension period, their Sole Parent Support should be regranted from their expiry date.

If a client does not complete the 52 week reapplication process within the extension period or no longer qualifies for Sole Parent Support, their benefit will be cancelled from their expiry date. The amount of benefit (including any Extra help) that was conditionally paid during the extension period must be established as a debt.

If the client does not complete their reapplication process within the extension period, or were not granted an extension, they must apply as a new applicant if they still need Sole Parent Support. Their expired benefit must be cancelled from their expiry date before they can be granted Sole Parent Support as a new applicant.

The client will be subject to the usual commencement date rules, including the initial stand-down.

Note if the client advises they want to apply for benefit as a new applicant and completes their reapplication form, MSD must use their reapplication form as their new application.