2.8.3 Processing VCES overpayments

2.8.3.1 — The processing of overpayments and recovery in relation to VCES should be streamlined in terms of the number of files and letters sent. A standard letter should be used and it should be comprehensive. The letter should be generated by the VCES staff. It should advise how the overpayment occurred, the amount of the overpayment and the right of review. It should also clearly advise the client how and to whom they repay the money, as well as advising how long they have to respond to the letter. The letter should direct the client back to the VCES staff if they wish to dispute/discuss the decision to raise the overpayment, and should also direct them to the Overpayment Management Unit (OMU) if they wish to discuss any repayment arrangements. An e-mail copy of the letter sent to the student advising of the overpayment should be sent to the Overpayment Management Unit (OMU). The OMU will raise a debt management sub-file and match the debt to the debt raised in IPS/DMRS. This avoids 2 letters being sent to the client.

2.8.3.2 — In circumstances where the VCES payments are paid to the parent, guardian or person approved by the parent or guardian, or by the Commission, and that person is also a DVA client, the overpayment may be deducted from any of their other ongoing income support or disability compensation payments.

2.8.3.3 — The person who is the liable party for the repayment of a VCES debt is the person who receives the payment.  Where a VCES payment is not made directly to the eligible child, the parent or guardian receiving the payment on behalf of the child is the debtor.