If you’re 22 or older, you are independent for Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY Living Allowance.

This means that your parents’ income doesn’t affect your payment amount.

If you want to claim Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY Living Allowance as soon as you’re independent, you can make your claim early.

You can claim up to 13 weeks before your birthday. If you do this, we can pay you as an independent from the day you turn 22

If you’re already getting a payment when you turn 22, your payment amount may change. How much we pay you depends on your circumstances.

Read more about being independent for Youth Allowance or independent for ABSTUDY.