You are here

5.3.1 Ensure correct assessment

5.3.1.1Always ensure that the current assessment is correct before commencing investigation into an overpayment to determine an effective cessation date for the overpayment. The effect is to minimise the portion of the debt caused by administrative delay. This may be achieved by updating the current rate of payment based on information already available, or may necessitate reviewing income/assets details by requesting that the client complete a Statement of Circumstances or Income and Assets Statement Form.

5.3.1.2In certain circumstances it will be appropriate for the examiner to ensure sufficient information is gathered before updating an assessment. For example the Department may receive a denunciation from a member of the public, alerting the Department to a special rate recipient who is working above the stipulated hours. In this case further investigation of the case will be required before an assessment may be amended.