Start Work Bonus
The Start Work Bonus helps Homes NSW tenants starting or returning to work.
If a person in the household over the age of 18 starts a new job, this extra income will not impact the household rent for up to 26 weeks.
Start Work Bonus eligibility
You are eligible if you:
- live in social housing
- are over the age of 18
- are starting or returning to work
- notify us within 28 days of starting work.
You are not eligible if you:
- live in social housing and are paying market rent
- are changing jobs
- are moving from casual to permanent or from part-time to full-time work.
For more information visit the Start Work Bonus eligibility section in the Tenancy Charges and Account Management Policy Supplement.
Applying for the Start Work Bonus
- Notify us within 28 days of you or someone in your household starts working.
- Fill out a Tenancy Online Form or the Rent Subsidy application form. Include the start date of employment and the new household income details.
- Have the employer fill out the Employment Income details form.
- Submit the completed forms to your client service officer.
- We’ll review your application. If approved, you’ll receive a confirmation letter with details on the updated rent amount and the date from which the new rent will apply.
Changes after the Start Work Bonus ends
After 26 weeks, your rent will increase based on your new household income. After getting a job, most tenants find they still only have to pay 25% of their income in rent and they continue to receive a rent subsidy.
If you or a household member stop working during the 26 week period, please tell us as soon as possible. This allows us to reassess your rental subsidy correctly and ensure that you pay the correct rent.