Things you should know if you are concerned about your financial situation and making HELP debt repayments.
What's on this page
When am I required to make compulsory repayments?
You start repaying your HELP debt through the tax system once you start earning above the compulsory repayment threshold amount ($54,435 in the 2024-25 financial year). If you earn under the threshold amount you will not have to make a compulsory repayment.
What should I do if I am facing financial hardship?
If you are required to make a compulsory a repayment and are facing financial hardship, you can apply to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for support.
The ATO may allow you to enter a repayment plan, or defer your compulsory repayment.
There is a two-year time limit to apply for a deferment of a compulsory HELP repayment.
What happens to my HELP debt if I go bankrupt?
Your HELP debt does not change if you are declared bankrupt. Repayments of your HELP debt will restart when you earn above the compulsory repayment threshold.