When we consider you dependent
If you’re 21 or younger, you’re dependent unless you meet 1 of the conditions that make you independent. This means your parents’ or guardians’ income may affect if you get a payment and how much you get.
When we consider you independent
There are several reasons we may consider you independent. These include, you:
- can show you’ve supported yourself through work
- meet certain criteria for being in a relationship
- have, or have had, a dependent child.
You may also be independent if you can’t live at home due to extreme circumstances. This includes family breakdown, violence, or serious risk to your safety and wellbeing. One of our social workers will assess this if you’re younger than 18.